Guidelines for re-opening Sportsgrounds · 2021. 6. 4. · Guidelines for re-opening Sportsgrounds...

Aviva Stadium: Data Classification Code - General (Class 1)

Revised

May 2021

Guidelines for re-opening

Sportsgrounds

Coronavirus COVID-19 Public Health Advice

TABLE OF CONTENTS


FOREWORD ....................................................... 1

Executive Summary ......................................................... 3

PART 1: OVERVIEW .................................................. 7

1. Introduction ....................................................... 7

1.1 What is Covid-19 / Key Principles ................... 7

1.2 Key Principles for Prevention of Spread of

COVID-19 ........................................................ 8

1.3 Regulations & Relevant Guidelines .................. 9

1.4 Objectives ................................................. 10

1.5 Scope of this Document ................................. 10

1.6 Application of this Document ......................... 12

PART 2: MANAGEMENT ......................................... 13

2. Developing an Action Plan .................................... 13

2.1 COVID-19 Compliance Team ......................... 14

2.2 Return to Work Safely Protocol ...................... 14

2.3 Review All Health and Safety Documents ........ 14

2.4 Risk Assessment ........................................... 14

2.5 Control Measures ......................................... 15

2.6 Capacity Analysis ......................................... 15

2.7 Review Operational and Event Management

Procedures ..................................................... 15

2.8 Review Roles and Responsibilities .................. 15

2.9 Develop Communication Plan ........................ 15

2.10 Monitoring and Oversight ............................ 16

2.11 Trial Events ................................................ 16

3. Managing Responsibilities ........................................ 17

3.1 Management Structure ................................. 17

3.2 Event Management Plan................................ 18

3.3 Oversight and Auditing ................................. 18

3.4 Stakeholder Engagement ............................... 18

3.5 Sportsground Responsibilities ........................ 20

Match Day Personnel ..................................... 20

4. Communications .......................................... 25

4.1 Communication with Spectators ..................... 25

4.2 Communication with Staff .............................. 26

4.3 Signage ....................................................... 26

5. Zone Ex Management ........................................... 27

PART 3: CONTROL MEASURES ............................... 29

6. Access Control ...................................................... 29

6.1 Accreditation ............................................. 29

6.2 Ticketing Plan ............................................... 29

6.4 Accessibility .............................................. 30

7. Health Screening ........................................................ 31

7.1 Testing ..................................................... 31

7.2 Health Declarations ....................................... 31

7.3 Temperature Checks ..................................... 31

7.4 Spectators ................................................ 31

8. Hygiene ........................................................ 33

8.1 Personal Hygiene & Etiquette ......................... 33

8.2 Personal Protective Equipment ....................... 33

8.3 Cleaning to Prevent Contamination ................. 34

9. Managing Physical (Social) Distancing ...................... 34

9.1 Reducing Non-Essential On-Site Personnel ....... 35

9.2 Zoning ...................................................... 35

9.3 Spectator Ingress ......................................... 37

9.4 Spectator Viewing Areas ................................ 40

9.5 Concourses & Circulation Areas ...................... 41

9.6 Spectator Egress .......................................... 43

9.7 Staff Distancing ............................................ 44

10. Sportsground Facilities Management .................. 46

10.1 Food & Beverage Concessions ...................... 46

10.2 Toilets .................................................... 46

TABLE OF CONTENTS


10.3 Ventilation ............................................... 46

10.4 Back of House Areas .................................... 47

11. Suppliers & Contractors ...................................... 47

11.1 Requirements for Suppliers and Contractors .. 47

11.2 Deliveries ................................................ 48

12. Suspected case of Covid-19 Response Plan ......... 49

12.1 Staff, Media & Competitors ........................... 49

12.2 Spectators ............................................... 50

12.3 Isolation Room ........................................... 50

12.4 Response to a Suspected Case ...................... 50

PART 4: CAPACITY ANALYSIS ................................... 52

13. Calculating Capacity ........................................... 52

13.1 Safe Holding Capacity .................................. 52

13.2 Determining Physical Distancing Requirement .. 52

13.3 Entry Capacity ............................................ 53

13.4 Holding Capacity ......................................... 53

13.5 Egress Capacity .......................................... 58

13.6 Emergency Capacity .................................... 61

APPENDICES .................................................... 62

Appendix 1: Controlled and Uncontrolled Environments .. 62

A1.1 Definition .......................................................... 62

A1.2 Requirements in Controlled Environments ..... 63

A1.3 Other Considerations .................................. 64

Appendix 2: Spectators’ Code of Conduct ................. 65

Appendix 3: Risk Assessment - Typical Hazard.......... 66

A3.1 Management Issues .................................... 66

A3.2 Physical Issues ........................................... 66

Appendix 4: Glossary of Terms and Definitions ............ 67



Appendix 5: Key Reference Documents .................... 70

DISCLAIMER


All Sportsgrounds are expected to have implemented the guidance outlined in the Work Safely Protocol for

Employers and Workers on their grounds.

The information contained within this document is based on the guidelines available at the time of writing.

This information is subject to change as new information on the COVID-19 virus emerges. Those using

this guideline should verify the recommendations based on the most up-to-date information provided by

the Government of Ireland, National Public Health and Emergency Team (NPHET) and the Health Service

Executive (HSE).

This information is compiled from various other sources as specified in the reference list in Appendix 5

of this document. We have endeavoured to attribute copyright or other intellectual rights to the rightful

owners where appropriate. While reasonable care has been taken in the composition of this document, the

Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), Football Association Ireland (FAI) and

Sport Ireland make no representations or warranties, whether expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or

suitability of the information or materials contained in this document.

The IRFU, GAA, FAI and Sports Ireland, or their agents, do not assume legal or other liability for any

inaccuracy, mistake, misstatement, or any other error of whatever nature contained herein and disclaim

liability in respect of such aforesaid matters. We accept no duty or responsibility (including negligence)

to any party and disclaim all liability of any nature whatsoever to any such party in respect of any damage

resulting from the use of the information contained or implied in this document.

By proceeding to use this document you are accepting this disclaimer.


Version Date Description

1.0 15/10/20 Final Draft

2.0 02/06/21 Revision

REVISION HISTORY

Guidelines for re-opening Sportsgrounds

Foreword

Following the release, in September 2020, of the Government’s Resilience and Recovery 2020-21: Plan for

Living with COVID-19, the FAI, GAA and IRFU set up a Working Group to bring a collaborative approach to

the development of a roadmap for the graduated safe return of Spectators to stadia in small steps,

commencing with trial matches. The Working Group submitted the initial report on proposed guidelines to

government in October 2020. Unfortunately, the Covid 19 situation in Ireland declined seriously

subsequently. In May 2021, with an improving situation particularly regarding vaccinations, the Working

Group reconvened, at the request of government, to revisit the guidelines and consider learnings since

the original report was submitted.

Sport plays a hugely important role in Irish society and by working together the FAI, GAA, and the IRFU

brought their collective expertise and learning to develop a roadmap for the safe return of Spectators to the

sports events they love and miss deeply.

The number one consideration for the Working Group is to develop a series of protocols which will allow

Spectators back into sporting fixtures in a safe way, while complying fully with Government Health

Guidelines.

Clearly there is a growing appetite for live sport amongst the public. Our Spectators are more than fans,

they are an intrinsic part of any sporting occasion; they are the family and friends of the men and women

who are representing their town, their county, their province or their country. They are part of the sporting

culture of our nation which is so critically important to our overall health and wellbeing.

The combined Working Group contained a wealth of experience in running major sporting events at

national and international level. The Working Group also drew on international best practice. This guidance

document is intended to outline a roadmap to opening Sportsgrounds from National Stadia, such as Croke

Park and Aviva Stadium, to Provincial Stadia and to smaller venues and club grounds. The FAI, GAA and

IRFU had already completed several protocols for safely returning to play and reopening venues.

The Working Group was conscious of the importance of this guidance document in demonstrating the ability

of the associations to reopen stadia in as safe a manner as possible whilst also recognising the importance

of “Living with COVID-19”. Reopening stadia is a vital step to recovery for sports organisations which

have been severely damaged socially, financially, and culturally by the absence of attendances at their major

sporting events and their ongoing ability to fund and support the millions of men, women and children

participating in GAA, Soccer and Rugby across the island every week.

In its deliberations the Working Group considered the experience in other countries where trials had

taken place and sports spectators had already returned to sportsgrounds, particularly in England. The

Working Party was mindful of the “The Ferguson Report” on antigen testing which made specific

reference to it being used as part of the return to sport. The potential role of PCR and Antigen Testing


was considered, and it was noted that testing was not required for the final matches in the English

Premier League. The Working Party considered that the FAI, GAA ad IRFU would fully support

government initiatives in the area of testing. The financial and logistical challenges of mass testing pre-

event were not considered practical to operate in larger crowds. This opens the question of the value of

testing at trial events when it cannot be used at standard events. It was also felt that to build public

confidence any testing would need to be carried out by the HSE or other public health authority.

The Working Party considered that the original report, submitted in October 2020 and contained in this

document, was still applicable to the situation as it pertained in May 2021.

It is hoped that this report, and the protocols developed by the associations which lie behind the report, will

inspire the confidence to allow Spectators to attend important national and international fixtures which lie

ahead – GAA All Ireland Championships, International Rugby and International Football.

I wish to thank Minister Jack Chambers and the officials in Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts,

Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and in Sport Ireland for their leadership and guidance to the Working Group,

and for Minister Catherine Martin for her support.

I also wish to thank the members of the Working Party who contributed to the report. In particular, I

wish to thank Eamon O’Boyle and staff, Monica Lillis, Rani Cameron-Gregory and Laura O’Kelly of EOBA

for their efforts in collating the report.


Working Party:

Martin Murphy, Stadium Director, Aviva Stadium (Chairman)

Peter Hogan, Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media

(until May 2021)

Donal Hannigan, Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media

(from May 2021)

David Byrne, Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media

Paul McDermott, Director NGB & High Performance, Sport Ireland

Peter McKenna, Stadium Director, Croke Park

Tony McGuinness, Operations & Events, Croke Park

Joe McGlue, Chief Security Officer, FAI

Barry Gleeson, International Operations Director, FAI

Kevin Potts, Chief Operating Officer, IRFU

Mick Davoren, Operations Manager, Aviva Stadium

Daniel Wynne, Aviva Stadium, Working Party Coordinator

Martin Murphy

Chairman of Working Party

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3 - Guidelines for re-opening Sportsgrounds

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report is intended to provide guidance for reopening

of sportsgrounds and stadia. Sports grounds are

controlled environments and as such offer the potential

to manage interactions and limit risks of transmission

associated with COVID-19.

Under the Governments Resilience and Recovery 2020-

2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19 (The Roadmap)

provision was made for the reopening of stadia at Levels

1 & 2, with Behind Closed Doors games played at Levels

3 & 4. The Path Ahead revises this Roadmap on a

continuing basis based on the vaccine rollout

progression. This Path includes for the gradual phased

re-opening of Sportsgrounds and other events using a

series of Trial sporting events to gauge the effectiveness

of the control measures put in place.

The report is a working document and will be updated

in line with additional information, learnings from trial

events, best international practice/experience, and any

changes to Government guidelines.

INTRODUCTION

This report is the output of a Working Group comprised of

representatives of the FAI, GAA, and IRFU as well as Senior

Stadium Operations and Event Management, Officials

from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht,

Sport and Media and Sport Ireland. The collaborative

approach of the group involved significant contributions

from all parties. Expert advice was provided by Health

and Safety Consultants, Eamon O’Boyle and Associates,

engaged by the Working Group at the outset. The report

sets out in detail the background and context, the advice

of the Working Group and the technical operational

guidelines recommended by the Group. The report is

supported by previous detailed and approved protocols

developed by the FAI, GAA and IRFU that are currently

successfully in place and in referenced reports. It is

noteworthy that all three sporting bodies have organised

and managed safe return to play programmes for huge

numbers of people which has had massive positive impact

on health and wellbeing.

SCOPE OF DOCUMENT

This report is intended to assist the Government by

proposing plans for the phased re opening of large sports

grounds to spectators in a safe manner during the ongoing

COVID-19 pandemic. The contents are intended to

support and complement existing guidance and

requirements for managing major sporting events. It is

primarily intended to reassure all spectators that it is safe

to return to venues that comply with these guidelines.

The report is also intended to guide venue management

on operational details.

GUIDELINES AND REGULATIONS

The document acknowledges that the guidance is subject

at all times to the prevailing HSE/NPHET/Govt guidelines,

Health and Safety and GDPR Regulations that are in place.

Government Guidance on Venues During COVID-19

Previous Government guidance set out in the Roadmap

on venues that have capacity of less than 5,000 people

would be limited to maximum attendances of 100-200

people depending on the restriction level in place. Stadia

with capacities in excess of 5,000 people would be

limited to maximum attendances of 200-500 people.

The Path Ahead aims to provide a gradual phased re-

opening of these venues, pursuant to a series of Trial

events which test the capability to perform the events

safely under the control measures outlined in this

document. This document is aimed at purpose-built

facilities with capacities in excess of 5,000 and which are

proposed to host a significant sporting event such as Elite

games, Professional sport, International matches,

National finals, National semi-finals, and Intercounty

Championships .

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY


Code of Practice for Safety at Sports Grounds

Matches at Sports Grounds in Ireland, with capacities

in excess of 20,000, are conducted under the Code of

Practice for Safety at Sports Grounds. Sportsgrounds of

lesser capacity are also guided by the Code. The Code

stipulates clearly defined responsibilities for planning

events and in the case of major events outlines the role

of the formal Liaison Committee which is comprised of

representatives of Stadia Management, and Statutory

Authorities (An Garda Síochána, Fire Brigade, HSE,

Transport, Local Authority). Event Management Plans

are drafted for all major events. This report is specifically

intended to address the challenges of admitting spectators

to sportsgrounds in the COVID-19 crisis and therefore

intended to supplement the normal event management

planning for all events at major stadia. The principles

outlined in the report can be adapted to club grounds.

LOCAL CONSULTATION – LIAISON COMMITTEE

Stakeholders such as the National Transport Authority

(NTA), An Garda Síochána, Fire Safety Authorities and

Local Authorities will be consulted locally by Stadium

Management for initial views on the proposals. More

detailed discussions will happen in advance of particular

events in the normal manner.

TRIAL EVENTS

The phased return to spectating roadmap envisages a

number of Trial Events to be conducted in designated

venues with appropriate controls in place. These events

will be held to test the control measures and determine

if they are logistically practicable to employ in an event

setting. The trials will be divided into a number of

progressive phases with increasing capacities and to test

the limits of the control measures

Trial events will not be organised or publicised prior to

approval of the appropriate Government body (Sport

Ireland / Dept of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport

and Media).

REVIEW

The Working Group will reconvene after trial events to

conduct a full debrief and revise the guidance document

based on learnings. Learnings will be shared with the

appropriate Government department in a transparent

manner. The Working Group will keep account of all

international best practice learnings via their

International Federations (e.g. World Rugby, UEFA, FIFA)

and feed these into the ongoing workings.

CORE PRINCIPLES FOR PROVIDING A SAFE ENVIRONMENT (i.e. The Solution to the Problem) The principles of prevention of spread of COVID-19

involve the following:

• Limiting potential Contact with the virus so it cannot

pass from one person to another

• i.e. DATE principle. = Duration/Density, Activity,

Timing and Environment management.

• Containment of the Virus to reduce number of

persons it can be transmitted to

• Contact Tracing for early intervention

The key measures we intend to implement include:

• COVID-19 Compliance Management

• Training / education of staff and spectators

• Communication

- Pre-event to staff and Spectators

- Clear signage and use of PA system for COVID-19

messaging

• Tracing

- HSE COVID-19 App

- Contact tracing facilitation through ticketing.

• Spectator Management:

- Code of conduct to be developed

- Reduced capacity 1m or 2m social distancing

- Segregated zones, entry and egress points

- Mandatory face coverings

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY


• Facilities Management

- Enhanced cleaning and adequate hand sanitiser

distribution

- Spectator flow management - safe ingress and

egress

- Queue management at toilets, food and beverage

concessions

- Hand sanitiser distribution

• Zone Ex management - journey to the Sportsground.

The Working Group identified the following areas which

have been addressed within the guidance.

COVID-19 Compliance Safety Management

Each venue is required to appoint a designated COVID-19

Compliance Officer or Compliance Team, depending on

the size of the Sportsground.

Communication

Communication is probably the crucial aspect of the

successful implementation of plans. Each association will

develop detailed communication plans for their sports

and sportsgrounds. A coordinated plan will be agreed

between the three associations on a common message.

Coordinated communications plans will be developed.

This will ensure that fans can expect and follow the same

safety protocols no matter what event they are attending

– GAA, Football or Rugby.

COVID-19 Tracker App

Spectators will be advised that having the HSE COVID-19

Tracker App on their phone and with them at the event is

a mandatory requirement for entry.

Spectator Code of Conduct

A Spectators’ code of conduct has been drafted. It should

be the same for all sports and promoted widely following

approval of this report by Government and ahead of all

trials and actual events.

Face Coverings

Face Coverings will be mandatory from arrival at the

venue to departure (except while eating food, under 13s

and for individual health reasons).

Physical/Social Distancing

The physical distancing of people to prevent transmission

is a key principle to prevention of COVID-19 spread. The

current public health guidance is 2m social distance for

non-vaccinated people.

Scope has also been given to reduce distancing in areas

that can be classed as “Controlled Environments”

The Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 Plan defines a

Controlled Environment as

“one where the number of people and the ways that they interact

can be actively managed. The owners or organisers can control

the number of people coming in and out, and there is space to

physically distance. Controlled environments are those where

the number of people present and the ways that they interact

can be controlled, where there is a recognised organiser, where

people are seated and generally remain in that same seat for the

event, physical distancing, hand hygiene can be monitored, and

contact tracing can be facilitated. For example, a sports club

AGM, watching indoor sport, youth club meetings, AA meetings,

conferences, training events, theatre performances.”

The Path Ahead sets out a “Vaccine Bonus” for those

who are fully vaccinated, or have had at least one dose

of a vaccine and have waited the prescribed number of

days as advised by the HSE. This bonus includes for a

relaxation in physical distancing requirements. As the

vaccine rollout progresses, it is envisaged that physical

distancing requirement will be relaxed to reflect the

reduction in transmission in the wider community.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY


Terraces

Terraces present certain challenges in the COVID-19

environment. However, we are confident that measures

such as marking positions on terrace risers or designating

pens can provide a solution and will be tested as part

of the plan, as terraces are a vital feature of many of the

traditional stadia in the country. Each association/

stadium will carry out a COVID-19 risk assessment based

on local knowledge to determine a safe terrace policy

appropriate to the venue to be tested. Some venues may

indeed choose not to open terraces.

Zone Ex

A stadium or sports ground will become a “controlled

environment” as defined by NEPHET with all measures

set out in this report and, as such, the Working Group

believes this is manageable with the right plans in place.

Zone Ex is the external environment outside the stadium.

The movement of people to and from the event, although

outside the control of Stadia Management, must be

considered, to discourage unwanted gatherings of people

in a less controlled environment. Measures will be planned

in full consultation with the Liaison Committee ahead of

each trial event to minimise gatherings and ensure that

Zone Ex is as safe a space as possible to minimise the spread

of Covid 19. For many this is understandably perceived as

the biggest challenge but one that is considered by the

Group as a vital aspect of all trial events

Travel to and from the Venue

Government guidance at this time on domestic travel

is clear. People should walk or cycle if possible. Several

Sportsgrounds have bicycle parking racks in their vicinity.

In the normal course of daily life, people should be

encouraged to avoid public transport and cars. Public

Transport infrastructure can be critical in ensuring safe

and efficient transport to and from major sporting events,

engagement with the NTA on public transport planning

for each event is advocated to advise on travel patterns

of fans. Such engagement should enable Public Transport

to become a part of the solution to safe attendances at

major sports events. Promotion of car-based solutions

should be reserved for those who may need it most e.g.

those with mobility impairments.

Spectators with Disabilities

The report provides for arrangements for spectators with

disabilities.

Timing of Events

It is important that major events should not clash with

other major events in a location. However, this is unlikely

to happen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

IMPLEMENTATION BY ASSOCIATIONS

Each Sportsground has unique features and as such, plans

for each venue must be bespoke. The implementation of

the guidance in this report and the COVID-19 plans for

each venue will be the responsibility of the Sportsground

Management in consultation with the parent association.

It is hoped that this guidance document may also be useful

to other sporting bodies.


1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is Covid-19

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a Coronavirus. The virus is transmitted primarily through

droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes or exhales. These droplets may be picked up, if

in the air, when a person is in close contact to an infected person. They may also fall onto surfaces where

they may be touched and transferred to a person’s nose, eyes or mouth when they touch them.

Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and

recover without requiring special treatment. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems

like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop

serious illness.

The following are the most common symptoms:

• a fever (high temperature of 38oc or above)

• a cough - this can be any kind of cough, not just dry

Overview

1.1.1 About Covid 19

1.1.2 Symptoms


SECTION 1 - OVERVIEW

• shortness of breath or breathing difficulties

• loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this means you’ve noticed you cannot smell or taste

anything, or things smell or taste different to normal

A full list of symptoms can be found on the HSE website.

1.2 Key Principles for Prevention of Spread of COVID-19

The key principles of prevention of spread of COVID-19 involve the following:

• Limiting potential contact with the virus so it cannot pass from one person to another

• Containment of the Virus to reduce number of persons it can be transmitted to

• Contact Tracing for early intervention

The primary methods to achieve this, as recommended by NPHET, the HSE, European Centre for Disease

Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) involve the following:

• Cleaning your hands thoroughly and often using soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub

• Maintaining a safe distance from other people

• Wearing a face covering when physical distancing is not possible

• Covering your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze

• Refraining from touching your eyes, nose or mouth

• Staying home and self-isolating and contacting your doctor or the HSE if you develop symptoms

• Avoiding large crowds in uncontrolled environments

• Using Contact Tracing Apps, or keeping a Contact Log

• Keeping up to date with public health advice from trusted surfaces

https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/symptoms.html


1.3 Regulations & Relevant Guidelines

In September 2020, the Government published the

Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 Plan. This outlined

their medium-term approach to managing risk and repairing

the damage caused by the Coronavirus.

The plan set out a framework of restriction levels that would

be imposed on different regions and counties depending on

the incidence rate of the virus in those areas.

The framework addressed restrictions in key areas including

social gatherings, sports, bars and restaurants, hotels, retail

services, workplaces, travel, schools, playgrounds, and care

facilities.

This guidance set out a need for specific guidance for

sportsgrounds and stadia, as follows:

“For very large purpose-built event facilities (for example:

stadia, auditoriums, conference or event centres) specific

guidance will be developed with the relevant sectors to take

account of size and different conditions for events such as

large national and international sporting events.”

This document aims to provide the specific guidance

required for the opening of large purpose-built

Sportsgrounds and Stadia.

This document is not intended as guidance to those events

at which the public are not permitted. Sportsgrounds

should carry out a risk assessment to assess the control

measures necessary for behind-closed-doors activities.

In April 2021, the Government set out their approach to

the next Phase – laying the foundations for the full

recovery of social life, public services and the economy,

while remaining vigilant to the uncertainties around new

variants and emerging evidence.

Following 5th April, the situation has been subject to

ongoing review taking account of the evolving

epidemiological situation and available evidence in

relation to vaccine deployment, uptake, and

effectiveness.

The Guide to Safety at Sportsground (Green Guide),

issued by the UK’s Sports Grounds Safety Authority

(SGSA), is recognised as best practice for the safe planning

and management of events at held at Sportsgrounds. The

SGSA have issued supplementary guidance for planning

for Social Distancing at Sportsgrounds during COVID-19

(SG02).

This document follows the principles set out in the Green

Guide and SG02.


1.3.1 Resilience and Recovery 2020- 2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19

1.3.2 Resilience and Recovery 2021: The Path Ahead

1.3.3 Code of Practice for Safety at Sports Grounds

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e5175-resilience-and-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/



The information contained in this document is based on

current best practice in major event management. It has

been compiled with contributions from the FAI, the GAA

and the IRFU, and in respect of Medical, Health and Safety,

Catering and Facilities Management as well as the advice of

the Government, National Public Health Emergency Team

(NPHET), The Health Services Executive (HSE), the World

Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Centre

for Disease Control (ECDC). Refer to Appendix 5 of this

document for a full list of reference documents used.

1.4 Objectives

Club games were held in early 2020 with 200 to 500

Spectators in outdoor settings, before further restrictions

were put in place, in Sportsgrounds with a maximum

capacity of less than 5000 people. This guidance can be

used to supplement club guidelines already in place.

The policies and procedures outlined in this document are

designed to be integrated into the Sportsground’s event day

operations and procedures. The main objective is to create an

environment where the risk of virus transmission is reduced

to an acceptable or tolerable level. The aim is to maintain a

safe environment for competitors, staff and Spectators while

providing an enjoyable experience for fans and delivering a

successful event in line with competition rules.

1.5 Scope of this Document

The Government’s Plan for Living with COVID-19 outlines

the need for specific guidance for purpose-built stadia

and Sportsgrounds to be developed. This document aims

to provide that guidance, setting out proposals for

measures to be in-situ for the safe return of Spectators at

Sportsgrounds.

The key principles and control measures of hygiene,

maintaining distance, sanitisation, and clear

communication, as documented in these guidelines

remain the same whether it is for a small club game or

large international game taking place.

For large purpose-built Sportsgrounds that can normally

accommodate 5000+ Spectators, this guidance may be

adopted to allow these venues to run events with more

than 500 Spectators where the recommended control

measures are in place.

This document applies only to sporting events where the

public are admitted, i.e. for Restriction Levels 1 & 2 of the

Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 Framework.

Under the Living with COVID-19 Plan, Sportsgrounds

may hold elite sports games behind closed doors at Levels

3 & 4 of the restrictions. Only the competitors, officials,

accredited media/journalists, and people with a working

function would be permitted at the event. These events

can operate subject to a risk assessment and appropriate

control measures.

1.3.4 Other Key Guidelines and Reference Documents

1.5.1 Small Sportsgrounds & Club Games (up to 500 Spectators)

1.5.2 Large Sportsgrounds (500+ Spectators)

1.5.3 Matches Behind Closed Doors



1.6 Application of this Document

This document is intended for use by all parties involved in or organising a sporting event in a Sportsground. These

guidelines apply to the following groups.

Group 1 Competitors

All Competitors, Teams, or Players

along with their Manager, Coaches,

Assistants, Team Doctors &

Physiotherapists, Press Officer, and

any other Operational Staff Associated

with the Competitors.

Group 2 Officials

Referees, Assistant Referees, Fourth

Official, Video Assistant Referees,

Match Officers, Doping Control

Officers, Pitch-side Medical Team,

Support Staff, Team Liaison Officers,

Pitch-Side Media.

Group 3 Venue & Event Staff

Facilities Staff, Support Staff, Event

Controller, Safety Officers, Security

& Stewarding, Crowd Medical Team,

Bar & Concession Staff, Cleaners,

Maintenance Team, Broadcast Media.

Group 4 Patrons Ticketholders and VIP guests.

The focus of this document is primarily on Groups 3 & 4. Groups 1 and 2 will be required to adhere to the particular

guidelines set out by the Sporting Bodies and tournaments.

Group Name Includes:


2. DEVELOPING AN ACTION PLAN

Before considering opening a Sportsground to members of the public, a series of actions should be carried out to ensure

it is safe to do so. The action plan should include:

1. Appointing a COVID-19 Compliance Team

2. Producing a Work Safely Protocol for the Sportsground as a Workplace

3. Reviewing and Updating the Sportsground Safety Documentation

4. Carrying out a Risk Assessment for the Event

5. Developing and Installing Control Measures within the Sportsground

6. Carrying out a Capacity Analysis Based on Physical Distancing Guidelines

7. Reviewing Operational and Event Management Procedures

8. Outlining the Roles and Responsibilities of all Personnel in Relation to COVID-19

9. Developing a Communication Plan

10. Holding Trial Events Ahead of Opening Venues to Large Numbers

11. Monitoring & Review

Further information on these actions is detailed in the following paragraphs.

Management


2.1 COVID-19 Compliance Team

A COVID-19 Lead Co-ordinator should be nominated by

the Sportsground Management to represent their staff

in relation to COVID-19 and co-ordinate and oversee the

control measures required as part of the Sportsground’s

Work Safely Plan.

The Lead Co-ordinator should appoint COVID-19

compliance officers to monitor compliance in the

workplace. The number of compliance officers should

be proportionate to the number of staff in the

Sportsground.

See Section 3.6.7 of this document for further

information on the roles of the COVID-19 Compliance

team.

2.2 Work Safely Protocol

In accordance with government guidelines, all

workplaces are required to produce Work Safely Plan

outlining measures they will put in place to protect their

staff as they re-open.

2.3 Review All Health and Safety Documents

Normal in-house health and safety procedures are to be

followed as instructed by the health and safety officer

for the Sportsground. All health and safety documents

should be updated to include COVID-19. This might

include a review of:

• Safety Statement. Safety Statement and

associated Risk Assessments should be reviewed to

take account of COVID-19

• Risk Assessments / Method Statements

(RAMS). Risk Assessments and Method

Statements for all work on site should be reviewed

to address the risk of COVID-19. Particular emphasis

will be required on “Close Working”, i.e. where

persons cannot maintain physical distance while

working

• Daily Briefing Document. Daily briefing

documents (Safe System of Work Plans / Site

Induction briefings etc. should address COVID-19

2.4 Risk Assessment

Risk Assessments must be conducted as part of safety

planning for all games. The risk assessments for each

Sportsground and/or game need to take account of risk

of transmission of COVID-19, identifying those hazards,

which present a risk of a spread of infection between

persons.

The identification of hazards is based on assessment

against the principles of prevention, and relevant

guidance documents, as applied to an environment

having regard to the application of professional

judgement and common sense to the particular

circumstances.

Factors to consider when carrying out the risk

assessment on COVID-19 transmission include:

• The length of activity

• The numbers involved in an activity

• Whether direct contact is part of the activity

• Whether close proximity is part of the activity

• Contact group characteristics (e.g. a social bubbles,

team pods)

• The environment in which the activity occurs (e.g.

outdoors versus indoors)

A non-exhaustive list of typical hazards which may

increase the risk of infection can be found in Appendix 3

of this document.

SECTION 2 - MANAGEMENT



2.5 Control Measures 2.7 Review Operational and Event Management Procedures

Based on the risk assessment, measures can be put in place

that are considered reasonably practicable, to mitigate

or eliminate the hazards. The objective is to reduce risk

completely or to a tolerable or acceptable level. This

document sets out those control measures which should

be considered to help mitigate or eliminate risk of spread

of COVID-19 at an event in a Sportsground.

The management and implementation of control

measures will determine if the Sportsground can be

considered a “Controlled Environment” as defined by the

Resilience and Recovery Plan 2020-2021.

Further information on Controlled Environments is

outlined in Appendix 1 of this document.

2.6 Capacity Analysis

The assessment of the maximum allowable capacity of

a Sportsground during COVID-19 will be based on the

Standard Operating Procedures and Operational Manuals

should be reviewed and updated, where necessary, to

include for risks associated with COVID-19 transmission.

The Event Management Plan should be augmented to

include the COVID-19 risk assessment, updates to the

roles and responsibilities of personnel, and any relevant

COVID-19 control measures to be put in place. See Section

3.2 of this document for further information.

2.7 Review Roles and Responsibilities

The responsibilities of all stake holders should be clearly

outlined, including the appointment of a Lead COVID-19

Compliance Officer. Refer to Section 3.0 of this

document for further detail of the responsibilities of the

various parties involved.

2.8 Develop Communication Plan

Sportsground’s ability to manage physical distancing.

The Sportsground management and their governing body

must be satisfied that the control measures will be

implemented and that facilities are in place to adequately

manage the patrons at an event.

The first step should be to determine if the control measures

and management procedures will satisfy the requirements

for a “Controlled Environment” as detailed in Appendix 1.

This will determine whether the 2m physical distancing

is employed as per NPHET guidelines, or if the number of

people present and the ways in which they interact can

be controlled, a 1m physical distance may be considered.

Refer to Section 13 of this document for a detailed outline

on calculating maximum capacity using physical distancing.

A robust communication plan is essential to achieving

compliance by staff, competitors, and Spectators. All

available means of communication should be used before

and during an event, including ticketing platforms, social

media, and websites, as well as signage, public address

systems, and electronic displays in and around the

Sportsground. Refer to Section 4.0 of this document for

further information.

Key to re-opening Sportsgrounds safely is buy-in from

the public. It is imperative that Spectators are aware of

the measure that are being put in place for their safety, as

well as their personal responsibility for themselves and for

others while attending an event. As such, a Spectator Code

of Conduct should be drawn up to inform all patrons of

their responsibilities while attending a sporting event. An

example of the Code of Conduct is given in Appendix 2 of

this document.


2.9 Monitoring and Oversight

The governing body of a Sportsground should have

oversight of the Sportsground’s COVID-19 plan and

control measures before a game can take place. The

measures may also need to be reviewed in respect of

tournament regulations and guidelines by the relevant

sporting bodies.

The COVID-19 Lead Co-ordinator for the Sportsground

should work in conjunction with all personnel to ensure

strict compliance on event days. All control measures

implemented must be monitored on a continuing basis.

The COVID-19 Lead co-ordinator should monitor ongoing

HSE & NPHET advice and update all procedures

accordingly.

A Post-event review should take place following each

event to discuss any issues which may have arisen, and how

to improve on them ahead of the next event. Outcomes

should be shared with the governing bodies so that the

lesson learned can be passed between Sportsgrounds.

2.10 Trial Events

Trial events are necessary in order to evaluate and build

confidence in, and to test the plans and procedures and

control measures outlined in this document. A number of

trial events shall be run in different venues as a proof of

concept of the guidelines being proposed in this

document, prior to opening of all Sportsgrounds at full

physically distanced capacities.

Parameters for these Trial events will be agreed between

the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht,

Sport and Media and the relevant Sporting Bodies.

The guidelines in this document may be revised following

review of Trial events.

Only following successful trials, with low level of

transmission, will Sportsgrounds be re-opened to higher-

capacity controlled events.




3. MANAGING RESPONSIBILITIES

All stakeholders at an event share in the responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of their staff, their team, and the

public who attend an event.

Sportsground Management will have overall responsibility for reducing risk of COVID-19 transmission at their venue.

They should work closely with the Event Organisers, Event Safety Teams, and the Sporting Bodies and Competitors

to ensure that each party is carrying out their responsibilities. They should provide the necessary supports to allow

stakeholders to perform their duties safely.

3.1 Management Structure

The organisation chart below shows a typical management structure for managing risk of COVID-19 at a sporting event.

Each stakeholder will take on additional roles on top of their normal safety management roles to help implement and

manage the control measures required to reduce risk of spread of COVID-19.

Refer to Section 3.5 of this document for detail on the COVID-19 specific roles and responsibilities of the management

team and various stakeholders



3.2 Event Management Plan

An Event Management Plan (EMP) must be prepared for

each event. The EMP focusses on operational concerns

relating to capacity, access and egress, staffing, crowd

movement, hospitality and cleaning. The EMP and

associated Risk Assessment should be augmented with

specific measures to be implemented to minimise risk of

COVID-19 transmission within the grounds.

For regularly occurring games, an Event Management

Plan may be prepared for the season with match specific

instructions issued prior to each game.

The Event Medical Co-ordinator should carry out a risk

assessment Sportsground to determine if additional

medical facilities are required to protect against COVID-19

transmission.

They should liaise with the Sportsground’s Lead COVID-19

Co-ordinator to update their medical plan to include

location of isolation room on the Grounds, and other

relevant information. They may also need to co-ordinate

• Physical distancing and hygiene requirements for all

security/stewarding personnel

• Suspected case protocols

3.3 Oversight and Auditing

The guidelines set out in this document require oversight

to ensure they are being implemented in advance of an

event and monitored throughout. This involves:

• Ensuring control measures are in place ahead of the

event

• Monitoring compliance during an event

• Reviewing and auditing systems after an event

• Reviewing ongoing public health advice and updating

safety systems as required

The COVID-19 Lead Co-ordinator for each stakeholder

will have responsibility for overseeing and auditing their

own systems having regard to the other stakeholder

requirements.

3.4 Stakeholder Engagement

with the Sportsground facilities team to procure and store

necessary PPE and sanitising products.

A security plan should be developed to include measures

in place to reduce risk of COVID-19 transmission, as

outlined in this document. The security plan should

include:

• Rules for Entry (accreditation, health declarations,

temperature checks, testing)

• Sportsground zoning

• New roles and responsibilities for stewards, including

monitoring physical distancing

Sportsground Management and Event Organisers should

engage with key stakeholders, including Local Authorities,

HSE and An Garda Síochána so to inform them of the

event day arrangements and can assist where necessary.

3.2.1 Medical Plan

3.2.2 Security Plan



3.5 Sportsground Responsibilities

Sportsground Management are responsible for the safety,

security and service needs of all present in a Sportsground.

They should also:

• Appoint a COVID-19 Compliance Team (COVID-19

Lead Co-Ordinator and COVID-19 Compliance

officers)

• Ensure COVID-19 Risk Assessment is carried out by a

Competent Person

• Ensure COVID-19 Health and Safety Plan is prepared

• Ensure adequate controls and procedures are in place

at all times

• Revise/update the above when new information

becomes available from Government and Health

Authorities

3.6 Match Day Personnel

The Event Controller has the status and authority to

take full responsibility for all matters related to the

management of the event. In addition to their prescribed

roles set out in the Code of Practice for Safety at

Sportsgrounds and the Event Management Plan, the

Event Controller is also responsible for:

• Ensuring that adequate COVID-19 control measures

are in place for the safety of persons attending,

suppliers and staff

• Ensuring that the COVID-19 response plan is made

available to all event personnel

• Ensuring the COVID-19 Compliance Team is in place

and aware of their duties

• Keeping updated with Public Health Advice and

updating the procedures accordingly

In addition to their prescribed roles as outlined in the Code

of Practice for Safety at Sportsgrounds and the Event

Management Plan, The Safety Officer shall undertake the

following duties:

• Ensure the COVID-19 Risk Assessment is carried out

for the event

• Ensure the Control Measures identified in the risk

assessment have been implemented

• Ensure that all match day staff are provided with and

participate in necessary training and ad hoc briefings

in relation to COVID-19

• Determine the requirement for safe equipment

including personal protective equipment (PPE) and

ensuring this is provided as necessary

• Ensure Signage relating to COVID-19 is in place

throughout the Sportsground

• Ensure COVID-19 compliance officers are in place,

aware of their duties and carrying them out effectively

• Ensure staff are aware of COVID-19 symptoms, and

the Sportsground’s policies and procedures

• Receive updates from COVID-19 Compliance officers

and take action as required

• Keeping updated with Public Health Advice and

updating the procedures accordingly

3.6.2 Safety Officer

3.6.1 Event Controller



The Head of Security / Stewarding should maintain

contact and report directly to the Event Controller on

all matters, including COVID-19. In addition to their

prescribed roles as outlined in the Code of Practice for

Safety at Sportsgrounds and the Event Management Plan,

the duties of the Director of Stewarding/Head of Security

should include:

• Ensuring that, in conjunction with ordinary match day

activities, all stewards and security personnel have

a clear understanding of their additional roles and

responsibilities in the Sportsgrounds with respect to

COVID-19

• Assisting the Event Controller in ensuring adequate

personnel are deployed, as necessary

• Ensuring that details of all stewards are recorded in

the steward register for contact tracing

• Briefing stewards on COVID-19 policies and

procedures in place in the Sportsground

• Briefing stewards to follow key principles of

COVID-19 prevention measures:

- Observe Physical Distancing

- Wear A Face Covering

- Do Not Touch Your Mouth of Face

- Wash Your Hands Regularly

• Ensuring that stewards are positioned at all exits,

entrances, and key points where control is most

needed, particularly at any queues, to ensure physical

distance is being facilitated

• Familiarising themselves and their staff with any

changes to the layout of the venue, e.g. zoning, one-

way systems, etc. and location of isolation rooms

The Head of Security / Stewarding shall also be

responsible for ensuring that new safe systems of works

which have been implemented as a result of COVID-19

are communicated to all personnel. This will include:

• Check in/ Check out systems

• Points of entry

• Radio management

• Working in close contact

• Ejection of Spectators

The Medical Co-ordinator should update their medical

plan for an event to address COVID-19. In addition to

their prescribed roles as outlined in the Code of Practice

for Safety at Sportsgrounds and the Event Management

Plan, the duties of the Medical Co-ordinator should

include:

• Carrying out a risk assessment and method statement

and updating their medical plan accordingly

• Ensuring that their medical staff have a clear

understanding of their additional roles and

responsibilities with respect to COVID-19

• Ensuring that their medical staff have the appropriate

PPE for treating suspected cases

• Familiarising themselves and their staff with location

of isolation rooms

3.6.3 Head of Security/Stewarding

3.6.4 Medical Co-Ordinator



Sportsground Management, Event Organisers,

Contractors, and Suppliers have a responsibility to

provide a high level of service while ensuring the safety

of their staff. In particular they should ensure that they

have developed a COVID-19 Response Plan in line with

the government’s Work Safely Protocol. They should

listen to ongoing Government and Public Health advice

to ensure they are following the most current advice and

best practice.

Employers should ensure sufficient staffing contingencies

in the event of a staff member reporting experiencing

symptoms of COVID-19 and is unable carry out their

duties.

Refer to Section 11 of this document for further

information on the requirements for contractors.

All staff present on site at an event, including Sportsground

Staff, Event Staff, Contractors, Sporting bodies, media

and volunteers should follow the instructions outlined

in their employer’s COVID-19 Response Plan and the

Sportsground’s Event Management Plan.

All Event Staff should:

• Inform their employer immediately if they are

experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and not report

to work

• Read their employer’s COVID-19 procedures and

confirm they understand them

• Practice a high level of hygiene

• Keep a contact log of direct contact with other people

• Be open and honest if they have been in contact with

a COVID-19 case

• Wear PPE provided

• Observe physical distancing at all times

• Attend COVID-19 induction training in advance of

the event

3.6.5 All Employers 3.6.6 All Event Staff



Each stakeholder organisation will appoint COVID-19

Compliance Teams as follows:

• Sportsground Compliance Team

• Event Organisers Compliance Team

• Competitors Compliance Team

The Sportsground Compliance Team should carry out an

audit of the venue before opening to the public and should

fill out an Action Checklist to confirm all control measures

are in place. A sample control measure checklist can be

found at on the Health and Safety Authority website,

though it is recommended that a site/event specific

checklist be developed for each Sportsground.

They Sportsground COVID-19 Compliance Team should

be responsible for:

• Ensuring cleaning and disinfection has been carried

out to all areas in the venue

• Monitoring Sportsground staff for compliance with

COVID-19 procedures

• Providing training and PPE for staff as required

• Ensuring infrastructure is in place, such as has Perspex

screens, sanitation stations, barriers for queue

management, signage, etc.

• Ensuring seats not in use are appropriately and safely

blocked off

• Ensuring Toilet facilities have appropriate physical

distancing and hygiene measures in place

• Completing Action Checklist in advance of the other

parties arriving on site

The Event Organisers Compliance Team may be part of

the Stewarding Team or may be part of the Event Safety

Team. They should monitor Spectator areas throughout

an event and advise and assist Spectators with physical

distancing and hygiene measures. They should report to

Safety Officer or Head of Security. They should have

sufficient training and knowledge of the Sportsground to

carry out their duties effectively. They should be able to

address any public concerns with respect to COVID-19.

The different teams or Sporting Bodies may each have

their own Compliance Team. They should liaise with the

Sportsground Team to make sure their requirements

for COVID-19 safety for the players and officials, in line

with competition or tournament rules, are being followed

where relevant.

Prior to being admitted to the Sportsground, Spectators

should be required to read and agree to a Code of

Conduct and any updated Ground regulations. The Code

of Conduct should include details on key behaviour

expected of Spectators while at the Sportsgrounds such

as:

• Physical distancing

• Policies of face coverings

• Personal hygiene and etiquette

• Respect for other Spectators

3.6.7 COVID-19 Compliance Team 3.6.7.2 Event Organiser COVID-19 Compliance Team

3.6.7.1 Sportsground COVID-19 Compliance Team

3.6.7.3 Competitors Compliance Officers

3.6.8 Spectators

https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/covid-19/return_to_work_safely_templates_checklists_and_posters/employers_checklist_no2_control_measure1.pdf



This should be included in the ticketing and

communications plans. For example, Spectators may

have to read through the Code of Conduct prior to being

able to purchase the ticket. A person purchasing multiple

tickets will be expected to forward the rules to all those

attending the event with them.

Non-compliances with the Code of Conduct may lead to

expulsion from the grounds, or prevention of attending

future events. Refer to Appendix 2 of this document for a

sample Code of Conduct for Spectators.

All Spectators should also be required to download the

HSE COVID Tracker App.

All competitors, teams and support staff have a

responsibility to make themselves aware of and follow

the Sportsground’s COVID-19 protocols and the rules of

the Sporting Body or Tournament.

All media personnel including broadcasters,

photographers, social media and journalists should

complete the induction resource and health questionnaire

and adhere to COVID-19 site specific rules of the

Sportsground.

Media should operate only within their own designated

zones and should avoid pinch points such as the players

tunnel. They should avoid interaction with other staff,

players, contractors, or Spectators. Media must follow

the protocols in place for interviews, photography and

interaction with players.

3.6.9 Competitors, Match Officials and Support Staff

3.6.10 Media



4. COMMUNICATIONS

Clear and concise communication with staff, competitors,

and Spectators is an essential part of managing risk

in the Sportsground. A comprehensive and reliable

communication plan can be utilised to inform all persons

attending the Sportsground as to what measures have

been put in place for their safety, and to inform them of

what is expected of them. A good communication plan will

also allow persons attending the fixture to be informed

with up-to-date information and changes as they occur.

4.1 Communication with Spectators

Before an event takes place, management should inform

the ticket holders, using all available communication

channels, of:

• The safety measures that have been implemented in

the Sportsground, and

• Their responsibilities when attending an event

This will reassure attendees of the safety precautions

in place for their own safety. It will also assist in the

operations on the day as Spectators will know what to

expect and will be able to plan accordingly. Spectators

should be required to agree to a Spectator Code of

Conduct as a condition of entry with the expressed

knowledge that they may be denied entry or expelled

from the grounds if they do not follow the advice in place.

In addition to normal ground rules, communications with

ticketholders should give clear concise information

informing them, where applicable, of:

• Their responsibilities in terms of hygiene and

respiratory etiquette, physical distancing and wearing

of face coverings

• Their responsibility to remain at home if they are

experiencing symptoms before an event or are a close

contact of a suspected case

• Their responsibility to personally assess themselves

for fitness to attend, e.g. if they might be considered

vulnerable people

• Advice on what to do if they develop symptoms while

at the venue.

• Advice for travelling on public transport including the

possibility of limited services

• Availability of bike racks and/or changes to parking, or

vehicle access to the venue

• Suggested arrival times to account for possible

increased queuing and to inform of staggered entry

times, if imposed

• Location of entry points and exit routes related to

their allocated seating

• Any difference in standard entry procedures or checks

they may need to undergo

• Information on their allocated circulation area, if

concourses are zoned

• Payment methods at concessions (e.g. if contactless

payments, or click and collect methods are being used)

• Changes to the usual available refreshments, e.g. if

there is a no-alcohol policy

• Exiting arrangements, particularly if staggered exiting

is imposed

• Any other relevant advice

4.1.1 Before the Event



During the event, Spectators should be reminded of

control measures which may be in place and their

responsibilities.

Clear, concise signage should be in place at entrances and

throughout the Grounds to indicate:

• Hygiene protocols

• Physical distancing

• Face covering protocols

Floor markings can also be used to indicate queuing

positions using physical distancing.

During the event, use can be made of the Public Address

Systems, Scoreboards, Information Boards and Screens

to give reminders to Spectators of their responsibilities,

and to inform them of any changes to procedures.

All messaging should be clear, concise, and consistent

and should adhere to the guidelines for signage, visual

contrast, and audibility for people with disabilities as

outlined in Technical Guidance Document Part M and

BS8300: 2009.

4.2 Communication with Staff

Specific training will be needed for all match operations

personnel.

Prior to, or on arrival at the Sportsground, induction

training should be provided for all Staff detailing the

new measures in place at the Sportsground, up-to-date

guidance on Public Health, as well as their responsibilities

while in the Sportsgrounds. Site induction training should

be obligatory prior to all staff/contractors/workers

entering the Sportsgrounds.

Any event specific guidance and procedures should also

be relayed to the staff prior to them commencing work on

event day.

Further briefings may be required throughout the day to

update the staff of any changes.

Adequate time needs to be given for additional staff

briefings before an event. This could extend the working

day at an event significantly. This needs to be considered

when assigning shifts, taking into account any

requirements for staff changeover, if necessary.

4.3 Signage

Appropriate signage should be installed in key locations

(entrances, concourse/circulation spaces, toilets, etc) to

remind the public of their responsibilities. The signage

should be placed in prominent positions and be clear and

legible.

Signage should be regularly reviewed to ensure it is

displaying the latest Government guidelines or Event

specific protocols.

Signage may take the form of the following:

• Vertical signage prominently mounted in key locations

indicating physical distancing, face covering protocols

and other relevant information, advice and guidance

• Floor markings indicating physical distancing

• Electronic displays and screens within circulation

areas can also show relevant information

• Big screens can also be used to give instruction to

Spectators. This may be particularly useful if there are

specific exiting procedures that they need to follow

To accommodate for non-English speaking Spectators, all

signage to be pictographic where possible.

4.1.2 During the Event



5. ZONE EX MANAGEMENT

Consideration needs to be given to the Sportsground environs during entry and egress of an event. The management of

the “last mile” leading from public car parks, public transport hubs and local amenities will be essential in reducing the

risk of spread of COVID-19.

While management of this zone is outside the direct control of the Sportsground Management and Event Organisers, a

holistic view of the Spectator journey to and from the Sportsground needs to be considered.

This might include:

• Review of public transport capacity

• Review of access and egress to public transport hubs to allow physical distancing

• Provision of additional parking or liaising with local public car parks

• Spectator behaviour outside the grounds to be addressed in the Spectator Code of Conduct

• Advanced communication with ticketholders as to public transport or parking limitations

• Impact on local businesses and residents, ensuring they can physically distance from the Spectators and implement

public health measures

• Prevention of over-crowding in local bars and restaurants pre and post event

• Changes to approach routes which may affect traffic management

• Temporary road closures to accommodate new access and egress routes, if required

• Staggered entry time and egress times

• Prohibiting casual traders

Sportsground Management and/or Event organisers should liaise with Local Authorities, An Garda Síochána, the National

Transport Authority and/or local transport providers, and key stakeholders to co-ordinate safe access and egress to and

from the Sportsgrounds.


6. ACCESS CONTROL

6.1 Accreditation

everyone arriving at the same time. Queuing systems

should be put in place with signage, barriers and floor

markings as required.

All persons operating in the Sportsground on an event

day should be accredited. The accreditation process must

take into account the different zoning in place within the

Sportsground, as outlined in Section 9.2 of this document,

as well as the specific requirements for each zone.

Only persons who have completed their training and

provided a health declaration should receive their

accreditation. Those in the Player Zone may need further

screening or tests before receiving the accreditation for

that zone.

The accreditation must be clear and legible to allow

stewards to identify who is authorised to access each zone.

Contact details of all accredited individuals, including a

contact telephone number, must be retained for a period

of 28 days by Sportsground Management or Event

Organisers to enable contact tracing.

All names should be submitted to the Sportsground/event

accreditation office no later than the agreed specified time

before the event.

To maintain physical distancing at the accreditation pick-

up point, staggered shifts should be considered to prevent

6.2 Ticketing Plan

Entry to the Sportsground should be by ticket only. All

tickets should be bought online or in advance. Spectator

details should be recorded to facilitate contact tracing. No

walk-ups should be allowed.

The ticketing strategy for the event should consider the

following:

• Contactless ticket scanning should be used where

practicable, rather than tearing of stubs or handling

paper tickets

• Tickets for seated accommodation should be to

allocated specific seats, or where standing, for specific

standing areas or pens

• Ticket sales to be limited to a maximum of 6 per person.

The persons attending in a “social-bubble” together

should be from not more than 4 households

• Ticket Re-Sale should not be permitted unless the

name and contact details can be transferred to the

new owner with the ticket. Ticket holders must carry

valid ID to confirm identity if requested.

Control Measures

• Patrons who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19

before the game should be refunded the cost of their

tickets

• Clear entry times should be given on the tickets,

particularly if staggered zone entrancing is being

utilised.

Spectators should be made aware that their contact

details will be kept for a period of 28 days to facilitate

contact tracing.

Any ticketing plan should go hand in hand with a rigorous

communication plan.

6.4 Accessibility

Event Organisers and Sportsground Management

should ensure that COVID-19 control measures do not

compromise the rights or quality of the experience for

Spectators or staff with disabilities. The COVID-19

response plan should have regard to the requirements of

the Equality Act 2004

Factors to be considered include:

• Control measures should not prevent a person with a

disability from attending or accessing the venue

• The Sportsground cannot restrict people from attending

for reasons of disability. It is for the individual to carry

out their own personal risk assessment and determine

the appropriateness of their attendance at the event

• Spectators with disabilities often require attendance

with a companion or aid. This will need to be considered

when allocating tickets in line with physical distancing

• The identity of the companion might not be known in

advance of the event day. This should be considered

with respect to contact tracing

• Positions of barriers and infrastructure should not

impede the access or circulation route for people with

disabilities


• Positions and legibility of signage should have regard

for people with different disabilities

• Hand sanitisers should be accessible to people with a

range of abilities

• Hand sanitisers, barriers, and other infrastructure

should contrast visually with surrounding surfaces, so

that they are easily identifiable to people with vision

impairment

• Stewards and COVID-19 Compliance Officers should

be made aware that some disabled people are unable

to wear face coverings

• Stewards and COVID-19 Compliance Officers should

be aware that people with hearing impairments may

have difficulty understanding them while wearing

a face covering and they may need to remove them

momentarily, if required, to communicate. They should

ensure they maintain physical distancing while their

face covering is removed and should follow hygiene

guidelines when removing their face covering

SECTION 3 - CONTROL MEASURES



7. HEALTH SCREENING 7.3 Temperature Checks

7.1 Testing

Sporting bodies may require nasopharyngeal and

oropharyngeal swabs + PCR tests for certain personnel.

The Sportsgrounds should facilitate these as far as

possible, and ensure that members of Group 3 personnel

(venue staff, event staff & media), where required, are also

tested in accordance with Competition Rules, particularly

if they may come into contact with the competitors.

In the case of a positive result, the test provider should

contact the HSE. No person who tests positive should be

permitted to travel to a venue or take part in an event.

The results of tests should be kept in strictest

confidentiality, though any changes or cancellations to

the event day programme may need to be communicated

with staff and ticketholders by the Sportsground.

7.2 Health Declarations

Before entering the Sportsground on Event days, all staff

and contractors should complete a health declaration, in

a similar format to the HSA’s Return to Work Form. This

form should either be completed at the staff entry point

or returned to Sportsground no more than 3 days prior to

an event.

The declaration should confirm that they are not

experiencing, nor have they experienced within the last

14 days, any symptoms of COVID-19, nor have they

been a close contact of a suspected case. Personnel may

also need to confirm that they have not returned from a

country not on the green list in the last 14 days, however,

this does not apply where alternative arrangements have

been put in place for competitors and staff who have

travelled for international games.

All declarations are private and should be treated with

the utmost confidentiality. Records shall be kept in line

with data protection regulations.

Following a risk assessment, some venues and/or sporting

bodies may also require temperature checks for all

personnel coming on site. All personnel should be made

aware of any health checks before arrival. Personnel may

not be permitted on site if they are experiencing high

temperatures.

7.4 Spectators

Spectators should be advised via all available

communication methods to stay at home if they are

experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. It is up to the

individual to carry out a personal risk assessment to

determine if they should attend, this particularly relates

to those with pre-existing health conditions that may be

considered “vulnerable people” in relation to COVID-19

public health advice.

All Spectators should be encouraged to download the

HSE COVID Tracker App.

Organisers may also request/require Spectator’s to

complete health declarations as part of their ticketing

process.

https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/covid-19/return_to_work_safely_templates_checklists_and_posters/return_to_work_form.pdf

https://covidtracker.gov.ie/?utm_source=covid_tracker&utm_medium=app&utm_campaign=hse_landing_page_banner



8. HYGIENE 8.2 Personal Protective Equipment

8.1 Personal Hygiene & Etiquette

Face coverings must be worn by all staff, match day

personnel, and contractors operating in the Sportsground

at all times.

Staff should be expected to practice good hygiene in line

with HSE guidelines.

Hand washing facilities should be available to all

Spectators. Hand sanitising units should be placed in key

locations at entrances and throughout the concourses

and circulation areas for patrons’ and employees’ use.

Spectators should be encouraged to use the hand sanitiser

while maintaining physical distancing.

Spectators should be required to wear face coverings at all

times when in the Sportsgrounds, except when eating or

drinking. Exceptions to this rule include patrons who are

under the age of 13 or are unable to wear them because of

a physical or mental illness or disability.

Consideration should be given to keeping a supply of face

masks at entrances to give to Spectators who may have

forgotten to bring their own.

Individuals must be informed via pre-event

communications that much of the responsibility for

managing COVID-19 risk remains with themselves,

particularly in relation to physical distancing, the wearing

of face coverings and hygiene.

Sportsground management should ensure the provision

and maintenance of PPE to ensure safety at work where

it is not reasonably practicable to control or eliminate

hazards. The level of PPE required for various tasks

should be considered in the Risk Assessment. Mandatory

training in the safe use and disposal of PPE should be

provided. PPE recommended to reduce virus transmission

include Gloves and Face Coverings. However, it should be

noted that gloves should not replace the need for regular

handwashing.

Where disposable gloves are worn, personnel much

ensure the following:

• Hands should be washed before putting gloves on,

between glove changes, and when gloves are removed

• Gloves should be changed frequently

• Gloves should be changed after use - personnel should

not reapply the same pair of gloves

The following personnel should wear a face covering

while operating in the Sportsground.

• All Sportsground Operational Staff, ground staff,

catering and cleaning staff

• All Event staff, Sportsground stewards, security,

medics and volunteers

• All media, except commentators during the event and

PA announcers

• Group 1 & 2 personnel, except competitors and match

officials

• Any other personnel, to be agreed with Event

Controller and/or Sportsground management,

where wearing of a face covering would not inhibit

that person’s ability to perform their roles and

responsibilities

Consideration should be given to keeping a supply of Face

Coverings at entrance points to distribute to Spectators

who have forgotten to bring their own.

8.1.1 Staff

8.1.2 Spectators



8.3 Cleaning to Prevent Contamination

All areas of the Sportsground that are in use for the

event must be cleaned prior to use. These areas include

player areas, media working areas, Spectator viewing

areas, offices, meeting rooms and sanitary facilities.

Cleaning should be carried out in accordance with ECDC

Guidelines.

Enhanced cleaning procedures should be in place to

prevent cross contamination at shared touch points in

back of house areas as well as areas open to the public,

including but not limited to:

• Taps and washing facilities

• Toilet flush and seats

• Door handles and push plates

• Electronic touch-sensitive door release buttons

• Light Switches

• Handrails on staircases and ramps.

• Escalators

• Lift controls

• Sign-In Touch Screen Displays

• Food preparation and eating surfaces

• Communications equipment

• Office equipment

• Rubbish collection and storage points

• Welfare facility areas

Contact/touch surfaces and communal changing/sanitary

and catering facilities should be cleaned at least twice

daily.

The use of a neutral detergent for the cleaning of

surfaces in general premises (i.e. not for premises where

a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 has been)

should be sufficient.

Seats and handrails in Spectator viewing areas should be

cleaned prior to each event.

Where a game takes place less than 72 hours before the

previous event, an enhanced sanitisation of the seats

and handrails in will be required to decontaminate any

surfaces that that the public may be in contact with.

For cleaning of areas where a suspected case has come in

contact, refer Section 13.4.3 of this document.

9. MANAGING PHYSICAL (SOCIAL) DISTANCING

The physical distancing (also known as social distancing) of

people to prevent transmission is one of the key methods

of prevention of COVID-19 spread. The paragraphs below

set out recommendations for control measures that can

be applied to allow physical distancing to be maintained

by staff and Spectators at an event.

The physical distancing measures outlined in this

document are based on 2-metre distancing as far as

reasonably possible. However, scope has been given to

reduce distancing in areas that can be classed as

“Controlled Environments” and in line with Public Health

advice. The recommended measures for Controlled

Environments are outlined in Appendix 1 of this

document.

8.3.3 Cleaning after a Suspected Case

8.3.1 General Cleaning Protocols

8.3.2 Cleaning Spectator Viewing Areas

https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/disinfection-environments-covid-19

https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/disinfection-environments-covid-19



9.1 Reducing Non-Essential On-Site Personnel

where practicable, to limit contact between those seated

in different parts of the venue.

Each of these zones may have different protocols and

The number of personnel on site during an event should

be limited to essential match-day staff only. Essential Staff

are the people required to deliver an event. Stewarding

and security numbers should be limited to the smallest

number that can safely perform their duties in each zone.

It is acknowledged that additional staffing may be

required to manage physical distancing and queuing in

circulation areas.

9.2 Zoning

Sportsground should be divided into separate zones to

limit contact between personnel in different groups, and

control measures applied to them. Access to a particular

zone should be restricted only to cleared, accredited

personnel. Access between zones should be limited.

Zones should ideally each have their own dedicated entry

and exit points, where practicable.

A map of the Sportsground defining all areas/zones,

routes and access and egress points should be produced,

clearly setting out the zones. See below an example zone

map. Note, the zone colours outlined below are indicative

only. Colour zoning should be in line with Sporting Body

guidelines, or coloured entry routes already existing in

the Sportsground.



A description of typical zones is given in the table below:

Zone Location Persons Allowed in the Zone Restrictions

Red

Performance Zone

• Pitch

• Dressing rooms

• Team entrances

• Players tunnel

• Substitutes area

• Referee’s room

• Anti-doping rooms

• Flash interview space

• Coaches box.

Group 1 & Group 2 and other essential personnel:

• Competitors, Coaches,

• Management & Technical Staff

• Team or Sporting Body COVID-19 Managers

• Referee Team

• Anti-Doping teams

• Hawkeye

• Medical Teams, Pitch side emergency crew,

ambulance staff

• Security assigned to the zone

• Pitch Side Broadcast Media and accredited

members of press

• Dressing Room Cleaners

• Venue Maintenance (only if required)

• Event Safety Team (only if required)

• Access Strictly Regulated.

• PCR Testing may be

required

Amber

All interiors of the

Sportsground including back of

house areas.

Group 3 personnel:

• Sportsground Management

• Sportsground Staff

• Maintenance and Cleaning Crews

• Concessions Staff

• Event Staff

• Event Safety Team

• Security

• Medical teams and ambulance staff

• Press/Media

• Health Declarations

before entering.

• Inductions

• Face coverings

• Temperature checks

• may be required.

• Other controls outlined in

this

• document

Amber Zone Personnel should have No Contact or

Access to competitors or their coaching/management

team.

Green

All areas within the

Sportsground that are

accessible to the public

Group 3 personnel & Group 4:

• Ticketholders/Spectators

• All those permitted in Amber Zone.

• Follow Public Safety

Advice

• Ticket holders to comply

with the Spectators Code

of Conduct even when

outside the grounds

Blue

Buffer Zone between

Sportsground entry point and

first external control points or

soft ticket check



• Local residents and businesses


Advice




outside the grounds

ZoneEx

External Zones – The last mile

leading from public car park,

public transport hubs, etc.



• Local residents and businesses

• Members of the public


Advice




outside the grounds



The zones may be further subdivided depending on the

size and layout of the Sportsground. For example:

• The Red Zone may be divided into zones for

competitors and management, etc. with separate sub-

zones for the area around the pitch for the Ball Team,

Pitch Side Media, ground staff etc. who should remain

physically distant from competitors

• The Green zone should be further sub-divided as far

as possible to separate those sitting in different parts

of the Sportsground. Each green subzone should have

its own entry point, Spectator viewing area, toilet

facilities, and food/beverage concessions (if being

provided).

The Sportsground security officers and stewards must be

clearly briefed about the Sportsground zoning system.

All staff working in the Sportsground must be asked to

respect the system and to cooperate fully with stewards.

9.3 Spectator Ingress

While attendance figures at the Sportsground will be

lower, the rate of entry will also be reduced due to physical

distancing during queuing, the removal of some entry

points where physical distancing can’t be maintained,

additional requirements for checks and screening, and

changes to the normal familiar entry routes which may be

confusing to the ticketholder.

Control measures that may be put in place to help maintain

adequate entry rates are outlined in the following

paragraphs.

To prevent over-capacity, it is essential to control and

manage the ingress. In order to reduce crowd build up,

it is recommended to have entry by advance ticket

purchase only. A Ticketing Plan will assist in this. Refer

to Section 6.2 of this document for further information

on ticketing plans.

Public Transport capacity to and from the Sportsground

may be limited due to physical distancing requirements

on the carrier. Public health advice in relation to use of

public transport during the different restriction levels

should also be adhered to.

Early communication to ticket holders of the potential

limits of public transport is essential. Patrons should be

encouraged to walk or cycle, if possible. Locations of

bicycle racks, bike rental stations and car parks should be

communicated to ticketholders in advance.

Refer to Section 9.2 of this document for further guidance

on Zone Ex (The external area outside the environs of

Sportsground including transport routes to/from the

Sportsground).

The majority of Spectators tend to arrive at a game in the

30 minutes before kick-off, which can lead to crowd build-

up at entrance gates, reducing the ability to maintain

physical distancing.

Consideration should be given to assigning time slots for

entry to different Spectator Viewing Areas. The allocated

time should be printed on the tickets and communicated

to the ticketholder in advance.

9.3.1 Ticketing

9.3.2 Access to the Sportsground

9.3.3 Staggered Entry Times



Creating segregated viewing zones within the

Sportsground will reduce instances of close contact.

Where these sub-zones are provided, they should ideally

have their own segregated entry and exit routes to

prevent cross-contamination between zones.

Routes to a particular Spectator viewing area should

be clearly identified with signage and in pre-event

communications.

If searches are required for security purposes, the

following control measures should be considered:

• Communicating with the ticket holder in advance to

inform them of:

- Expected entry/search time, and to arrive early

- Rules of entry and prohibited items

- Venue bag policy

• Strictly No Bag policy, or no Large Bags (over A4 size)

• Fast lanes for persons with no bags

• Scheduled entry time slots for different Spectator

viewing areas

• Clear signage, public address announcements and

stewards reminding people not to join the queue and

to return home if they are experiencing symptoms

• Soft Ticket checks to ensure people do not join the

queue without a ticket, or don’t join the wrong queue

for their allocated seating area

To maintain physical distancing during ingress, alternate

turnstiles and entry points may need to be closed, thus

reducing the number of entry points.

Additional entry lanes can be created at gates using

temporary barriers and stewards with handheld ticket

scanners.

Where temporary barriers are used, access for fire

brigade vehicles as well as emergency egress from the

Sportsground need to be considered. Standard Operating

Procedures should be developed for the removal of

temporary lanes in an emergency. These lanes should be

dismantled after the event has started and the majority of

ticketholders are inside, so as not to impede egress.

Physical distance queueing system should be managed by

stewards and floor markings are to be put in place where

possible to encourage physical distancing while queuing.

9.3.4 Segregation of Access Routes 9.3.6 Turnstiles and Entry Lanes

9.3.5 Segregation of Access Routes


9.4 Spectator Viewing Areas

Spectators should be physically distanced from each other

when viewing the event. This can be done by separating

individuals or separating groups of “Social Bubbles”.

Refer to Section 13 of this document for methods of

calculating capacity based on physical distancing.

As part of the risk assessment, the risk involved with

various seating or standing configurations needs to be

assessed. Some of the risks that might arise are outlined

in the following paragraphs.

Where people are sitting or standing in rows, it will be

necessary for them to pass each other to leave the area to

access the facilities. To do this they would breach physical

distancing guidelines. While the HSE states that there is

little risk if you are passing quickly, one should keep their

distance as much as possible. To help manage this risk, the

following measures might be considered:

• Requesting Spectators to turn their backs as the pass

other Spectators, avoiding face-to-face contact

• Requiring Spectators to wear face coverings when

seated and when on the move

• Requesting Spectators to remain in their seats

throughout the event, if able

Persons traversing one row would likely be within social

distancing of the row in front and behind them.

Consideration should be given to using alternate rows

to limit people crossing within minimum recommended

distances of each other. These free rows may also be used

as lateral gangways if required for example where aisles

are insufficiently wide to allow a two-way flow.


9.4.2 Alternating Rows

9.4.1 Brush Past



9.5 Concourses & Circulation Areas

While seated Spectators can be allocated a particular seat

number, this is more difficult in terraces and flat standing

areas. Spectators may migrate to get a better view, to

meet people they know or to get into covered areas in the

event of rain. The risks associated with this behaviour

include breach of physical distancing and intermingling

between different social bubbles. The following control

measures should be considered

• Addressing this issue in a Spectators Code of Conduct,

to include a commitment for Spectators to follow the

advice and requests of stewards who may ask them to

spread out or move to a different area

• Increased monitoring in standing areas by stewards

and/or CCTV

• Access control to standing areas

• Dividing standing areas into different zones or pens,

separated by barriers to prevent overcrowding in any

one area. This would include prevention of access

from one standing area to the next. Ideally tickets

would be sold to an assigned standing area. Any use

of temporary barriers should not impede emergency

egress or circulation by creating trip hazards or

blocking direct access to exits.

• Demarcation of physical distancing using floor

markings

The holding capacity of the venue should also consider

the physical distancing capacity of the concourses and

circulation areas. If the number of Spectators cannot

be accommodated in the circulation areas, then either

the overall viewing capacity should be reduced to the

maximum concourse capacity, or consideration should

be given to closing the food and beverage facilities so

that the circulation area is used for one-way directional

flow in and out of the Sportsground, and for toilet access

only. Refer to Section 13 of this document for methods of

calculating capacity based on physical distancing.

Stewards should encourage physical distancing of

Spectators in concourses and should aid with queue

management. The density levels in circulation areas

should be monitored at all times and access to these areas

may need to be managed by stewards at the entry points

from the Spectator viewing areas.

Prominent directional and information signs should be put

in place indicating locations of toilets and other facilities

and physical distancing.. These can be supplemented with

floor markings indicating physical distancing. Monitors and

Screens can also be used to provide information to patrons.

Other control measures that may be considered include:

• Segregating as far as practicable, without impeded

emergency escape routes, the different facilities

serving the different Spectator zones

• Allocating time slots for use of the facilities by

different Spectator zones

• Providing additional amenities where space allows,

for example providing temporary toilets or food

concession externally,

• Not showing the live event on monitors and screens in

the concourses

9.5.1 Capacity & Use

9.4.4 Standing Spectators Migrating



• Removing any tables and requiring people bring their

food/drink to their seat

More measures specific to the different facilities are

outlined in the following paragraphs.

Lifts will likely only have capacity for 1 or 2 people when

physically distancing. As such, they should be reserved

for patrons with mobility issues, and staff that have to

transfer equipment between levels.

All other staff and patrons should be advised to use the

stairs and escalators where possible.

Queueing systems for food/beverage concessions should

be set up by the concession managers. These may include

floor markings, signage and a one-way queuing system.

Where tensile barriers are used to define queues, they

should not impede emergency escape routes by creating

trip hazards or blocking access to exits.

The following should also be considered to reduce queues

in the circulation areas:

• Reducing menu options available to speed up service

• Provision of pre-prepared/pre-packaged food and

beverages to speed up service

• Click-and-Collect services using apps, or online pre-

ordering.

• Encouraging Contactless payments

The sale of alcohol at an event should be in-line with

government guidance at the time of the event and should

be subject to risk assessment. The Sportsground’s alcohol

policy should take cognisance of COVID-19 government

guidance in the sale and supply of alcohol. The following

should also be considered when deciding whether to

provide alcohol:

• Spectator profile including their history with alcohol

consumption and behaviour at similar events

• Lowered inhibitions caused by alcohol consumption

could lead to more breaches of physical distancing

and hygiene

• Removal of bar queues gives more circulation space

• Reduced pressure on the toilets where no alcohol is

served

If alcohol is to be sold, consideration should be given to

limiting number of drinks sold per person to help prevent

over consumption.

Sportsgrounds should adopt a no-smoking policy to

prevent congregation in line with physical distancing

advice.

9.5.2 Lifts

9.5.3 Food Concessions & Bars 9.5.4 Smoking Areas



The number of patrons entering toilets at any one time

should be limited. The following measures should be

considered to allow for physical distancing in toilet

facilities:

• Queuing systems for entry. Where tensile barriers

are used to define queues, they should not impede

emergency escape routes by creating trip hazards or

blocking access to exits

• One-way systems within the toilet facilities

• Alternate urinals and sinks to be closed off

• Floor markings and signage indicating physical

distancing

• Use of disposable paper towels to speed up hand

drying and reduce the risk of aerosol dispersal

To prevent build-up of pressure at vomitories and queuing

on gangways control measures should be put in place

to ease pressure at exiting. These measures may also

assist in reducing the demand on public transport and

throughout Zone Ex after the event. Control measures to

be considered include:

• Exiting people row by row starting the back row.

• Staggered egress, e.g. exiting different blocks are

Spectator zones at different times.

Refer to Section 9.2 of this document for further guidance

on Zone Ex.

9.6 Spectator Egress

During ingress and egress, vomitories (for access to the

Spectator viewing areas) will primarily be used in a one-

directional flow, however during the event Spectators will

require access to the facilities.

In order to facilitate two-directional flow while physical

distancing, vomitories should be 2.6m wide where 2m

distancing is employed, or 1.6m wide where 1m distancing

is being used. Refer to Section 13.4.1.4 of this document

for further information.

Where vomitories are less than 1.6m wide, controls

should be put into place to ensure that Spectators can

pass through in one direction only at any one time. This

might include using a one-way system using alternate

vomitories as “in” and “out” with lateral gangways or

alternate rows used to connect them.

Flow rates through exits will be slower while trying to

maintain physical distancing. Exiting times may need to

be extended to reduce pressure on the exits, but also on

the public transport systems with may be operating at

reduced capacity. The areas ahead of bottlenecks, or

“reservoir” areas, may lead to increased density

facilitating the breaching of physical distancing limits.

The areas should be controlled or eliminated.

Control measures to ease pressure at egress may include:

• Staggered Egress, allocating specific time slots for

egress from each section of Spectator viewing areas

• Row by Row exiting, starting with the back row. The

“church model” of leaving seats will prevent people

queueing alongside people seated beside aisles

• Reconfiguring or providing temporary barriers to

control flow and maintain channels separating lines of

Spectators egressing

• Re-directing exit routes to different exits to distribute

the exiting evenly around the Grounds allowing for

9.5.5 Toilets 9.5.6.2 Egress

9.5.6.1 During the Event

9.5.6 Vomitories and Gangways


more rapid dispersal of persons from the vicinity of

the venue

• Provision of stewards to monitor, direct and advise

Spectators along the exit routes

• Provision of additional exit routes, e.g. opening

additional gates that are normally only used for staff

• Increasing exit widths, where possible, to allow more

Spectators to pass through while physically distancing

For example, consideration could be given to providing

additional public transport services on event days,

temporary road closures at exit time, etc., to promote

physical distancing outside the venue. Refer to Section 9.2

of this document for further guidance on Zone Ex.

9.7 Staff Distancing

Staff areas should be separated from the patrons, and

from the different staff bubbles, as far as practicable.

Staff should be assigned separate entry and exit routes

from the patrons where possible.

Scheduling staggered shifts will reduce the demand on

facilities at start and end of shift and at breaks.

Changing Rooms and Lockers should be laid out to

optimise physical distancing.


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10. SPORTSGROUND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

• Appropriate signage with instructions for washing

hands in accordance with HSE guidelines

• Disposable paper towels should be provided along

with warm water and soap Sportsground Management and Facilities team will be

responsible for implementing engineering solutions and

management procedures to help reduce risk of

transmission. In addition to those measures for the

management of Physical Distancing as outlined in Section

8.0 of this document, other control measures should

be put in place to improve hygiene, disinfection and

ventilation. A number of these possible control measures

are outlined in the following paragraphs.

10.1 Food & Beverage Concessions

• Bins should be open, or pedal operated so patrons do

not have to handle them

10.3 Ventilation

According to the ECDC, poor ventilation in confined

indoor spaces is associated with increased transmission

of respiratory infections. This may be an issue for internal

concourses, as well as player dressing room and staff

areas.

Below are steps to consider which can improve

A number of measures to reduce physical distancing at

food and beverage concessions are outlined in Section

9.5.3 of this document. These include queuing systems

and methods to speed up service.

Other measures that might be considered include:

• Installation of screens between patrons and staff,

especially at point of sale

• Installation of new payment facilities for contactless

card payments

• Recyclable or biodegradable cutlery and additional

bins as required to dispose of them accordingly

• Removal of condiment stations

• Staff to hand out pre-packed condiments and

disposable cutlery

• Wearing of gloves by all staff passing food/beverages

to customers

10.2 Toilets

In addition to physical distancing measures outlined in

Section 9.5.5 of this document, the following measures

should be considered:

indoor ventilation. These steps should be considered

in consultation with a heating, ventilation and air

conditioning (HVAC) professional.

• Increase natural ventilation, opening windows or

external doors, if safe to do so

• For mechanical systems:

- Ensure any HVAC systems are fully serviced

and maintained

- Increase the percentage of outdoor air

- Increase total airflow supply

- Disable demand-control ventilation controls

that reduce air supply based on temperature or

occupancy

- Improve central air filtration

- Increase air filtration to as high as possible

without diminishing design airflow

- Ensure exhaust fans are operating at full

capacity

- Minimise recirculation as much as possible

- Consider running the HVAC system at

maximum outside airflow for 2 hours before

and after spaces are occupied, in accordance

with manufacturer’s recommendations

10.4 Back of House Areas 11. SUPPLIERS & CONTRACTORS

Limit the number of users within toilets, showers and

changing rooms to ensure physical distancing. This may

require staggering shifts so that staff are not trying to

access changing rooms at the same time.

Signage should be installed to promote physical distancing

and hygiene. Ensure soap and hand sanitiser dispensers,

disposable tissue dispensers and other similar devices are

regularly checked, cleaned and maintained.

Staff should ensure that personal belongings are stored

safely in lockers. In the event of a suspected case, any

loose items may need to be disposed of or quarantined to

allow for enhanced cleaning.

Staff facilities should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.

The same food safety requirements apply now as did

before COVID-19. Any changes to the nature and extent

of the business must be reflected in the food safety

management system/HACCP documentation. Ensure that

all employees have been trained in any new COVID-19

standard operating procedures.

Hand sanitiser should be placed at all entrances to cold

rooms and storerooms. Signage to be put in place to

promote hygiene and physical distancing. Access systems

such as biometric touchpads, keypads or swipe cards must

be cleaned and disinfected after each use.

Standard health and safety procedures are to be followed

as instructed by the health and safety officer for the

Sportsground. All supplier and contractor health and

safety documents should be updated to include COVID-19

in the company policies and procedures.

11.1 Requirements for Suppliers and Contractors

All suppliers and contractors who come on site must sign a

health declaration prior to entering. Their employee’s details

are to be provided for the company records and they also

must provide the following information.

• Insurance. Before commencing activities onsite all

contractors are advised to contact their Insurance

Broker / Insurance Company

• Safety Statement. Safety Statement and associated

Risk Assessments should be reviewed to take account of

COVID-19

• RAMS (Risk Assessments / Method Statements). Risk

Assessments and Method Statements for all work on

site should be reviewed to address the risk of COVID-19.

Particular emphasis will be required on “Close Working”,

i.e. where persons cannot maintain physical distance

• Daily Briefing Document. Daily Briefing documents

(Safe System of Work Plans / Site Induction briefings

etc.) should address COVID-19

All contractors should also ensure that their sub-contractors

have the necessary measures in place to reduce transmission.

Contractors should follow the same accreditation process

as all Sportsground and Event Staff for access to different

zones of the Sportsground on Event Day. They should be

required to complete inductions and provide a health

declaration before entering the Sportsground.



10.4.1 Staff Toilets, Showers & Changing Areas

10.4.2 Kitchens & Stores


11.2 Deliveries

The following measures should be considered to manage

deliveries of goods to the Sportsground:

• Agree a delivery protocol with suppliers

• Schedule deliveries to allocated times. Deliveries

should only take place before opening

• Enforce physical distancing during all delivery

transactions

• Encourage paperless delivery acceptance /

acknowledgement, e.g.

- do not sign for documents, just give them your

name on delivery

- request invoices to be sent via Email

• Ensure that hand sanitising/washing facilities are

available convenient to set down and goods inward

locations

• Wear suitable PPE when accepting deliveries

• Excess packaging should be removed by the driver if

possible

• Deliveries of food should comply with HACCP

delivery protocols

• The delivery areas should be cleaned and disinfected

regularly


12. SUSPECTED CASE OF COVID-19 RESPONSE PLAN

While staff and Spectators should not attend the

Sportsground if displaying symptoms of COVID-19 or if

they have had contact with a suspected case, the following

outlines the response plan that should be put in place by

the Sportsground and Event Organisers should someone

present with symptoms during the course of the event.

12.1 Staff, Media & Competitors

If any of the Groups 1, 2 or 3 personnel on site, suspect

themselves, or is suspected of having symptoms, they

must report/be reported to their COVID-19 Compliance

Officer.

The COVID-19 Compliance Officer must

• Ensure the person is wearing their face covering or

provide them with one if they are not wearing one

• If a face covering is not immediately available, they

should be provided with a disposable tissue and advised

to cover their mouth and nose with the tissue when they

cough or sneeze and put the tissue in the waste bag

provided

• Accompany the person to the agreed isolation room for

their Group, keeping a two-metre distance between the

person and themselves and other individuals

• Assess whether the unwell individual can immediately

be directed to go home

• Advise them to contact their doctor

• Assist the person in arranging transport home or to

a hospital for medical assessment. Public transport

should not be used

• Arrange with the Sportsground Facilities Management

for cleaning of the isolation room, the person’s work

area, and pending a risk assessment, any other areas

that the person may have had contact



• Log the incident 12.3 Isolation Room

• Alert the Event Controller and/or Sportsground

Management of a suspected case

12.2 Spectators

Ticketholders should be advised in advance not to attend

an event if they are experiencing any symptoms, have been

in close contact with someone experiencing symptoms,

or have travelled outside the Green List countries. This

should be re-emphasised at arrival by stewards and

signage at key locations.

The Spectator Code of Conduct should emphasise that,

should a Spectator develop symptoms of COVID-19

while at the Sportsground, they should leave the grounds

immediately, if able to do so, proceed directly home and

contact their doctor as soon as possible. If they are feeling

unwell or have no means of transport other than by public

transport, they should present themselves to a steward.

Should a Spectator present themselves to a steward or

staff member, a medical response team should be called,

and the Spectator escorted to the nearest isolation room.

Their seat number, and contact details should be taken

to facilitate contract tracing if requested by the HSE, and

to allow for enhanced cleaning of that area. The medical

assessor will assess if they are safe to travel or should be

taken to a hospital.

Isolation rooms should be provided and used to quarantine

a person who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. This

is to facilitate the person remaining in isolation prior to

going home, or to facilitate the attendance of a doctor.

Multiple isolation rooms may be required depending on

the size and orientation of the Sportsground. The route(s)

to the isolation room(s) needs to be quick and easily

accessible with as little human interaction as possible.

Each isolation room should have the following in place:

• Ventilation, e.g. fresh air / openable windows

• Tissues

• Hand sanitiser

• Disinfectant and/or wipes

• PPE: Gloves and Masks/Face Coverings

• Waste bags

• Pedal operated closed bin

Isolation Rooms must be professionally sanitised following

use by a suspected case. See Section 13.4.3 below.

12.4 Response to a Suspected Case

If someone in Group 1 or Group 2 is suspected of having

COVID-19, the team management should be made aware

as they may need to expedite replacement of the person

in question at the event. They should also liaise with the

Sporting Body, the Event Controller and Sportsground

Management to decide on the next course of action.


12.4.1 Group 1 and Group 2 Suspected Case


products for decontamination of textiles need to be

added to the wash cycle

If a Group 3 staff member is suspected of having COVID-19,

Sportsground Management and the Event Controller

will need to liaise with the medical co-ordinator and the

HSE to assess whether to post-pone or curtail the event.

Consideration may also be given to closing part of the

Sportsground, or just the facilities where that person was

situated either for the duration or until the area can be

properly sanitised.

The isolation room will need to be deep cleaned in

accordance with ECDC Guidelines as will the areas where

the person may have been working. The area should be

cleaned with a neutral detergent, followed by

decontamination of surfaces using a disinfectant effective

against viruses, including:

• Virucidal Products, or

• 0.05% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) (dilution 1:100, if

household bleach is used, which is usually at an initial

concentration of 5%)

• For surfaces that can be damaged by sodium

hypochlorite, products based on ethanol (at least 70%)

can be used for decontamination after cleaning with a

neutral detergent

• Cleaning of toilets, bathroom sinks and sanitary facilities

need to be carefully performed, avoiding splashes.

Disinfection should follow normal cleaning using a

disinfectant effective against viruses, or 0.1% sodium

hypochlorite

• All textiles (e.g. towels, curtains, etc.) should be washed

using a hot-water cycle (90°C) with regular laundry

detergent. If a hot-water cycle cannot be used due to the

characteristics of the material, bleach or other laundry

The cleaning team should provide a risk assessment and

method statement for carrying out cleaning of areas where

a suspected case has been in contact.


12.4.2 Group 3 Suspected Case

12.4.3 Cleaning Spaces After the Presence of a Suspected or Confirmed Case


13. CALCULATING CAPACITY

13.1 Safe Holding Capacity

The calculation of the safe holding capacity should be

based on the same principles as outlined in the Green

Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds. The maximum capacity

should be based on the least of the following capacities

• Entry Capacity

• Holding Capacity

- Reduced Viewing Capacity

- Concourse Capacity with Physical distancing in

place

• Normal Egress Capacity

• Emergency Exit Capacity

How each of these capacities may be affected by the

control measures required to mitigate risk of spread of

COVID-19 is outlined below.

13.2 Determining Physical Distancing Requirement

The method of measurement adopted in this document

is based on Method One of SG02 Guide to Safety at

Sports Grounds: Planning for Social Distancing at Sports

Grounds. SG02 Method One bases the physical distancing

measurement on a circle centred on the head, inscribed in

a square, i.e. the nose-to-nose distance between people.

This gives a nose-to-nose measurement which would be

congruent with the origins of the physical distance rules

which are based on studies of the distance of travel

droplets emitted during speech, coughing or sneezing.

The assessment of the capacity a Sportsground should be

based on the minimum physical distance as recommended

by NPHET at the time of the event taking place. For

example 2m between people, or reduced if the mitigation

measures outlined in Appendix 1 for Controlled

Environments are in place. A risk assessment will

determine the appropriate distancing for each event.

Percentage capacity may be also considered in lieu of

physical distancing measures in lieu of public health

guidelines as a result of vaccine rollout progress and/or

decreasing community transmission rate.

https://sgsa.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/SG02-Planning-for-Social-Distancing-at-Sports-Grounds.pdf






SECTION 4 - CAPACITY ANALYSIS

13.3 Entry Capacity 13.4 Holding Capacity

While attendance figures at the Sportsground will be

lower, the rate of entry will also be reduced due to physical

distancing while queuing, the removal of some entry

points where physical distancing can’t be maintained,

additional requirements for checks and screening, and

changes to the normal familiar entry routes which may

confuse the ticket holder.

The new entry capacity should be based on the formula:

Number of Channels allowing physical distancing X Reduced

Entry Rate X Number of Hours available for entry.

The Code of Practice for Safety at Sports grounds

recommends an entry rate of not more than 600 persons

per hour per lane/turnstile under normal circumstances.

Simulation modelling has estimated reduced flow rates of

between 12% and 28% to maintain physical distancing. As

such, it is recommended that entry rate during COVID-19

is based on an average 20% reduction. i.e. a reduced flow

rate of 480 persons per hour per entry lane.

These figures may be subject to change pending the

outcome at the trial games.

Using staggered entry times to spread out Spectator

arrival will assist in reducing crowd pressure at entry.

Consideration should also be given to the capacity of the

transport systems to the venue. Refer to Section 5 of this

document for further guidance on Zone Ex.

Holding capacity is normally determined by the number of

seats provided and/or space available in standing viewing

areas and terraces. During COVID-19, consideration also

has to be given to the holding capacity of the Concourses.

If the concourses or circulation areas cannot support the

capacity of the viewing areas, then either the capacity

should be reduced accordingly, or the amenities within

the concourses closed so they become circulation routes

in and out of the Sportsground only.

As physical distancing guidelines are relaxed, capacity

limitations may still remain in place to limit the size of

gatherings in one place and to ease pressure on public

transport and amenities pre and post event.

In such cases capacity may be based on a percentage of

the normal capacity of the venue.

Selection of the appropriate capacity for an event will be

subject to Public Health advice at the time of the event

and a risk assessment carried out by the event

organisers.

13.4.1 Percentage Capacity

http://dttas.old.gov.ie/sites/default/files/publications/sport/english/safety-sports-grounds/safety-sports-grounds.pdf



A number of factors may be considered to optimise the seating capacity of an area, including

• The physical distancing dimension being adopted

• Seat Width

• Aisle Width

• Management of Exiting

• Allocation of seating in groups, or singly.

• Using Alternating or Successive Rows

Below is a diagram showing the relevant dimensions allowed per person using Method 1 from SG02.

13.4.2 Seated Capacity

13.4.2.1 General



The seat width may have a big impact on the seating capacity. For example, where seats have a width of 500mm or

more, then at 1m distancing a person can be seated in every second seat to achieve the 1m distancing.

However, if a seat has a width less than 500mm, the 1m minimum distancing would only be achieved if every third seat

was used.

The allocation of seats on whether they are occupied singly, in pairs, in threes, etc. can optimise the capacity of a seating block.

In this method persons in the same social bubble may sit together. Group bookings should take account of the maximum

number of people from different households that are allowed socialise together based on the guidelines in place at the time

of the event. (e.g. maximum 6 persons in one bubble sitting together, or as recommended by Public Health advice).

Distribution of seats can be done based on proportions of tickets sold singly, in pair, in threes, etc. at previous events, or using

crowd modelling or ticketing software.

13.4.2.2 Seat Width

13.4.2.3 Grouping



It may be necessary to eliminate the seats next to narrower gangways and aisles. Persons queuing on the gangway to

exit may be within physical distancing limits of people sitting for a significant amount of time. Alternatively, the exiting

arrangements can be put in place to prevent queuing. Refer to Section 9.6 of this report for further information.

The seating capacity may be optimised by allocating seats in either alternating or successive rows depending on the

particulars of the venue. Sportsground Management must assess each seating area to decide how best to optimise

capacity while mitigating risks (e.g. minimising brush past). Below are some examples of seating laid out in alternating

and successive rows.

13.4.2.4 Gangways

13.4.2.5 Alternating or Successive Rows



For standing capacity, in the terraces or flat pitch side viewing areas, the capacity should be based on a density.

The density required to allow 2m physical distancing is 4m2 per person.

These densities assume that the Physical Condition (P) factor and Safety Management (S) factors as described in the

Green Guide for Safety at Sportsgrounds are at 1.0. These may be reduced following a risk assessment. If, for instance

during the trial games it is found that physical distancing of standing Spectators is difficult to manage or maintain, the

(S) factor may need to be reduced, thus reducing the capacity of the standing area.

Similar to the standing capacity, the circulation area capacity should be based on a density of 4m2 per person for 2m

physical distancing, with (P) and (S) factors applied as required, or reduced in line with public health guidance on

physical distancing.

Provision should also be made for queuing areas to food and beverage concessions and toilets, while allowing for two-

way circulation though the space.

If the Capacity of the Circulation Areas is less than that of the Spectator viewing areas, then the maximum capacity

should be taken as the capacity of the Circulation Area.

Alternatively, all facilities, excluding toilets should remain closed during the event and the circulation area treated as

a transverse area only for entering and exiting and toilet access. Stewards should discourage people from standing or

waiting in the circulation spaces unless queuing for the toilets.

13.4.3 Standing Viewing Capacity

13.4.4 Concourse & Circulation Area Capacities



13.5 Egress Capacity SG02 have not calculated for 2m but do specify a reduced

flow rate for 1.6m distancing of 46 people per channel

Egress at the end of an event under normal circumstances

is based on the width of the exit and the flow rate.

During COVID-19 the ability to maintain physical

distancing during egress should be considered. This will

involve creating channels, (either virtual for the purposes

of calculations, or physical aisles with barrier separation)

In addition, the rates of flow will be slower in order to

allow people to maintain physical distancing, and there

may be a reduction in egress points, as some may be taken

out of use to allow distancing.

The egress capacity during COVID-19 should be based on

the formula:

Number of Channels allowing physical distancing X Reduced

Flow Rate.

Consideration should also be given to the capacity of the

transport systems from the venue. Refer to Section 5 of

this document for further guidance on Zone Ex.

per minute on level surfaces and 34 people per channel

per minute on stepped surfaces. Based on proportional

reduction in flow rate between their 1m and 1.6m

distancing rates, we can extrapolate that for 2m distancing

the reduced flow rates expected would be:

• 36 persons per channel per minute on level surfaces

• 27 persons per channel per minute on stepped

surfaces

The Guide to Safety at Sportsground recommends that it

should take no more than 8 minutes for a person to reach

the start of a free-flowing exit route. This may be difficult

to achieve while physically distancing.

Measures should be put in place to minimise queues and

ease discomfort of Spectators waiting to exit. These might

include holding people in their seats to stagger exit times

for different sections or exiting people row by row. Care

should be taken to reduce exit time as much as possible

once people are moving from their seat towards an exit.

Flow rates for egress under normal operational conditions

are measured at 82 people per meter per minute for level

surfaces, and 66 people per meter per minute for stepped

surfaces.

In maintaining physical distancing while exiting the grounds,

the rate of flow will be reduced. According to SG02 crowd

modelling has been used to determine likely average flow

rates when maintaining physical distancing.

For distancing of 1m, the reduced flow rates expected are:

• 72 persons per channel per minute on level surfaces

• 54 persons per channel per minute on stepped

surfaces

13.5.1 Reduced Flow Rates

13.5.2 Exit Times



Where barriers are provided, the minimum width of a channel or passageway in accordance with the Guide for Safety

at Sportsgrounds is 1.1m. This is required to comply with accessibility guidelines.

When the 1.1m aisles are side by side, as indicated in the figure below, 2m distancing cannot be achieved between

neighbouring aisles. As such, alternate rows may need to be left sterile.

The addition of new barriers should be assessed in relation to emergency exiting. Temporary barriers may cause trip

hazards or impede access to exit points.

13.5.3 Channel

13.5.3.1 Channels with Physical Aisles



Where under normal circumstances the capacity of a channel was based on the width(m) X flow rate, during COVID-19

it is necessary to divide a channel into a number of virtual aisles to maintain physical distancing.

The minimum width required for a channel to allow two-directional flow, or 2 persons walking side by side while

maintaining physical distancing would be:

• 2.6m where 2m physical distancing is required

• 1.6m where 1m physical distancing is required

This measurement assumes those on the outside can walk as close as possible to the edge. See diagram below.

This method should be extrapolated for wider aisles and exit routes. For example, at 2m distancing, 1.3m will be needed

for each of those walking along the edge, plus another 2m for each additional person, as indicated in the diagram below.

13.5.3.2 Channels without Aisles



At 1m distancing, 800mm will be needed for each of those walking along the edge, plus another 1m for each additional

person, as indicated in the diagram below.

13.6 Emergency Capacity

In the event of an emergency, it is felt that the exigencies of the situation over-ride the recommendations for physical

distancing to prevent COVID-19 spread. The normal emergency egress calculations outlined in the Guide to Safety at

Sportsgrounds should be used.

All Spectators should exit the grounds immediately or as instructed.


APPENDIX 1: CONTROLLED AND UNCONTROLLED ENVIRONMENTS

museums, swimming pools, galleries, cinemas, stadiums,

conference facilities and casinos, food businesses,

restaurants and cafes.

A1.1 Definition

The Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 Plan defines a

Controlled Environment as

“one where the number of people and the ways that they

interact can be actively managed. The owners or organisers

can control the number of people coming in and out, and

there is space to physically distance. Controlled environments

are those where the number of people present and the

ways that they interact can be controlled, where there is a

recognised organiser, where people are seated and generally

remain in that same seat for the event, physical distancing,

hand hygiene can be monitored, and contact tracing can

be facilitated. For example, a sports club AGM, watching

indoor sport, youth club meetings, AA meetings, conferences,

training events, theatre performances.”

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre defined

Controlled Environments as “Public and private venues or

workplaces”. Examples given are workplaces, schools,

The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht,

Sport and Media, and the Department of Health further

clarified that “Businesses/services such as museums,

cinemas, theatres and art galleries are deemed to be controlled

environments, with appropriate protective measures in

place such as physical distancing between people. These

venues can continue to operate where appropriate physical

distancing and all other protective measures can continue to

be maintained”

Uncontrolled Environments are defined by the HPSC as

“settings where people have open access to the premises

and generally don’t know each other and are unlikely to be

in close contact with each other for an extended period of

time. Examples include supermarkets, retail stores, shopping

malls and takeaway-only food outlets. Additional details on

controlled and uncontrolled environments can be found in

Appendix 1. Inclusion criteria: This guidance covers food

and consumption businesses such as restaurants and cafés

(controlled environments). Exclusion criteria: This guidance

does not cover retail outlets e.g. take-away food outlets

(uncontrolled environments).

Appendices


APPENDICES

A1.2 Requirements in Controlled Environments

• Regularly reminding customers to follow physical

For a Sportsground to be considered a Controlled

Environment, the following provisions should be in place:

• Regulated entry by ticket only to ensure the capacity

is kept at a level that allows physical distancing

• Limiting group bookings to the maximum number of

people from different households allowed to gather

indoors at one time, in accordance with NPHET

guidelines. (e.g. maximum 6 tickets to be bought in

one booking)

• Requiring all attendees to sign-up to the Spectator

Code of Conduct as a condition of entry, along with

the ability to expel them from the grounds if they

breach the code

• Keeping contact details for the person making the

booking. Explain that the reason for keeping these

records is to provide them to Public Health for contact

tracing in the event that someone becomes ill with

COVID-19. These records should be kept for a period

of 28 days

• ID checks should be carried out at entrances, if feasible

• Use of a communications plan and additional signage

instructing ticketholder not to enter if they have

symptoms

• Ensuring enough space on concourses and circulation

areas to prevent intermingling between queues for

concessions, toilets, etc.

• Use of floor markings in concourses and circulation

areas to facilitate compliance with the physical

distancing advice, particularly at queues for food and

beverage concessions and toilets

• Use of vertical signage to direct customers to facilitate

movement within the premises while maintaining

physical distance

• Use of Clear signage indicating locations of and

routes to toilets and other facilities for customers.

distancing advice and practice personal hygiene using

the PA system, stewards, or screens

• Ensuring adequate hand hygiene and toilet facilities

are provided. Provision of additional pop-up hand

hygiene stations if necessary

• Scheduling of frequent cleaning of frequently touched

surfaces and toilet facilities

• Spectators should remain in their seat or viewing area

except when using facilities

• Limiting the number of staff per group of Spectators

to the smallest number that is practical and safe

• Guidelines issued by Fáilte Ireland and HPSC

regarding food and consumption businesses should

be followed for all food and beverage concessions

• Flags and other loose items distributed to fans should

be prohibited

• Face Coverings to be worn at all times while in the

Sportsground by staff and Spectators except when

eating or drinking

• Physical distancing of 2-metres should be maintained

between Spectators. However, if this is not possible,

this can be reduced in controlled environments

subject to a risk assessment, and having regard to

Public Health Advice in place at the time of the event

• Physical distancing of at least 1-metre between seats

indoors should be maintained

• For indoor hospitality areas refer to the guidance

provided in Failte Ireland’s guidelines for opening

restaurants and bars

A1.3 Other Considerations

The following control measures should be put in place where practicable

• Installing screens at food and beverage concession counters and ticket offices, for the protection of concession staff

and patrons.

• Contactless Payment systems to be installed at food and beverage concessions and ticket offices.

• Click and Collect systems for food and beverage concessions using apps and online pre-ordering, to reduce queues

in the concourses.


APPENDICES

APPENDICES


APPENDIX 2: SPECTATORS’ CODE OF CONDUCT

The following is a sample Spectators’ Code of Conduct. All sportsgrounds should adjust this to their particular event

All Spectators must adhere to the following Code of Conduct during COVID-19:

• Do not attend the event if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, are a close contact of a COVID-19 case, or have

travelled from outside the green list countries in the last 14 days.

• It is your responsibility to personally assess your ability to attend if you might be considered a vulnerable person.

• Be aware that the contact information given at ticket purchase and your seat allocation will be kept for up to 28 days to facilitate

contact tracing.

• Download and install the HSE COVID-19 Contact Tracing App prior to arrival.

• Make sure in advance that you are sure where your entry point to the grounds is.

• Be aware that Public transport may be operating at reduced capacity. Please walk or cycle to the grounds where possible

• Proceed directly to the event and home afterwards. Limitations on local amenities, restaurants and bars, may mean they are

not in a position to facilitate pre/post event patrons.

• Please practice physical distancing and hygiene while travelling to and from the venue. Please have respect for the areas

surrounding the venue, including local businesses and residents.

• Arrive in good time to allow the necessary check and procedures, or if a time is specified on your ticket, arrive at that time.

• Be aware that your temperature may be checked before entry.

• Please follow the directions of the stewards and any signage provided.

• Please be respectful to Sportsground staff and stewards. Verbal abuse will not be tolerated.

• Please observe physical distancing at all times and in all parts of the grounds.

• Avoid contact with others who are not in your social bubble.

• Please proceed to your allocated seating or standing area and remain there until exiting unless using the amenities such as

toilets and, food and beverage concessions.

• Be aware that requirements for physical distancing and reduced facilities may lead to increased queuing times for amenities.

• When moving past others in a seated area, please avoid face to face contact with other Spectators.

• If in a standing area, remain within your social bubble and in the zone allocated on your ticket.

• Maintain good hygiene. Wash our hands frequently or use hand sanitiser dispensers provided

• Avoid touching your face whenever possible.

• Please wear your face coverings at all times, except when eating or drinking, unless you are under 13 or are unable to wear them

because of a physical or mental illness or disability.

• Please observe respiratory etiquette – always cover your mouth if needing to cough or sneeze.

• Refrain from hugging, high fives, or any close contact with people who are not within your social bubble.

• If you are attending with other members of your social bubble, please make sure they have read and understood these guidelines.

• Failure to follow these rules may lead to a denial of entry, or expulsion from the grounds.

Thank you for your support and co-operation.


APPENDIX 3: RISK ASSESSMENT - TYPICAL HAZARD

Below is a list of typical hazards which may be considered

when assessing a Sportsground in relation to COVID-19.

The list below is non-exhaustive and does not include

hazards that might be specific to your venue.

A3.1 Management Issues

• Lack of information for staff and patrons around

Public Health Advice

• Queuing and milling round in concourse leading to

lack of physical distancing

• Programmes, flags and other loose paraphernalia

handed out to patrons

• Duration of game in relation to time in close proximity

to large numbers of people

• Lack of physical distancing outside the venue in “Zone

Ex” at entry and exit

A3.2 Physical Issues

• Insufficient hand washing facilities to maintain

hygiene

• Entrance Lanes do not allow physical distancing

• Seating layout to allow physical distancing

• Seating in rows leading to brush past for people trying

to get in and out of their seat

• Toilets, sinks and urinals – shared touchpoints and

lack of physical distancing

• Shared touch points (handrails, lift buttons, etc.)

• Food and Beverage Concessions – shared touchpoints

(cash, credit card machines, utensils and condiments)

and physical distancing (queuing)

APPENDICES

APPENDICES


APPENDIX 4: GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

Circulation The free movement of people within a sports ground.

Competent person

A person shall be regarded as competent in an identified role

where he or she has sufficient training and experience to meet

the national occupational standards relevant to the tasks within

that role. Competency includes an awareness of the limits of

one’s personal knowledge, skills or experience

Concourse

A circulation area, covered or uncovered, that provides direct

access to and from Spectator viewing areas, via stairways,

ramps, vomitories, or level passageways, and serves as a milling

area for Spectators for the purposes of refreshment and

entertainment, and/or provides access to toilet facilities, and

which may also form part of the ingress and egress systems of

the ground.

Close Contact

For COVID-19, a close contact is anyone who

• spent more than 15 minutes of face-to-face contact within

2 metres of someone who has COVID-19, indoor or outdoor

• is living in the same house or shared accommodation as

someone who has COVID- 19

• sat within 2 seats of someone who has COVID-19 on public

transport or an airplane

• spent more than 2 hours in an indoor space with someone

who has COVID-19, subject to a risk assessment

Contact Tracing

Process of identifying persons who may have come into contact

with an infected person (“contacts”) and the subsequent

collection of further information about these contacts.

ECDC European Centre for Disease Control

Entry Point Any controlled entrance, such as a turnstile, door or gate,

through which Spectators entre aground and are counted

Event

Any event, whether it relates to sport, entertainment or any

other form of gathering, to which the public is admitted. An

‘event’ (or ‘event day’) commences as soon as the first event

staff enter the premises and ends only after the last event staff

have departed.

Event Management plan An event management plan covers all the safety and

organisational aspects of an event.

APPENDICES



Event Organisers

An Event Organiser shall be the persons or organisation

responsible for hosting and organising an event. They

may be the Sportsground, a Sporting body, Tournament,

or other organiser (e.g. charitable organisation)

Flow Rate

The number of persons per metre width per minute

passing through an element of an ingress, egress or

circulation route.

HSE Health Service Executive

Isolation Separation of infected individuals and healthy individuals

Lateral Gangway

Channel or the passage of Spectator through Spectator

viewing areas running parallel with terrace steps or seat

rows.

Local Authority

An administrative body in local government that is

officially responsible for all the public services and

facilities in a particular area.

Management Person or persons in overall control of the premise whilst

people are present.

NPHET National Public Health Emergency Team

NSAI National Standards Authority of Ireland

Operations Manual

A manual which sets out the way a sports ground

operates on a daily basis. It should include but not be

limited to the stewarding plan, medical plan, planned

preventative maintenance schedule, fire risk assessment,

communications plan, event day procedures, contingency

plans, capacity calculations, site plans and details of safety

equipment.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

All equipment (including clothing affording protection

against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held

by a person at work which protects them against one or

more risks to their health and safety.

APPENDICES



Physical Distancing

Physical distancing, also called “social distancing,” means

keeping a safe space between yourself and other people who

are not from your household. To practice social or physical

distancing, stay at least 1m / 2m from other people who are not

from your household in both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Risk Assessment Overall process of risk identification, risk analysis, and risk

evaluation

SGSA Sportsground Safety Authority

Spectator

Any individual in attendance at a sports ground who is not

accredited by the competition organiser to participate in and/

or deliver the competition.

Spectator Viewing Area

Any area of a ground or structure in the ground provided for

Spectators, either seated or standing, to view the event, also

referred to as Zone 2.

Sports ground

Any place where sports or other competitive activities take

place in the open air and where accommodation has been

provided for Spectators, consisting of artificial structures or of

natural structures artificially modified for the purpose.

Viewing accommodation

Any area of a ground or structure in the ground provided for

Spectators, either seated or standing, to view the event, also

referred to as Zone 2.

Vomitory

An access route built into the gradient of a stand or terrace

which directly links Spectator viewing areas to concourses,

and/or routes for ingress, egress or emergency egress.

WHO World Health Organisation

Zone Ex

Ahe external zone (also known as ‘the last mile’) which

lies immediately beyond the outer perimeter of the sports

ground, consisting of a network of routes or areas, often

leading to transport hubs, and whose management is

considered key to the safe and secure arrival and

departure of Spectators

APPENDICES


APPENDIX 5: KEY REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

• Latest Public Health Advice from the HSE

• Department of the Taoiseach: Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19

• Sports Grounds Safety Authority. Guide to Safety at Sportsgrounds SG02. Planning for Social Distancing at Sports Grounds

• Department of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation: Work Safely Protocol

• Department of Education: Code of Practice for Safety at Sportsgrounds, 1996

• S.I. No. 151/2000 Infectious Diseases (Amendment) Regulations 2000

• Technical Guidance Document Part M

• BS8300: 2009: Code of practice for Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people.

• National Standards Authority of Ireland: COVID-19 Workplace Protection and Improvement Guide

• World Health Organization. Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19

• World Health Organization. Key planning recommendations for Mass Gatherings in the context of COVID-19 – Interim

Guidance 29 May 2020

• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Technical Report – Disinfection of environments in healthcare and non-

healthcare settings potentially contaminated with SARS- COV-2

• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control: Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems in the context of

COVID-19

• Sporting industry protocols with respect to COVID-19 from the following sporting bodies:

- Irish Rugby Football Association

- Gaelic Athletic Association

- Football Association of Ireland

- Union of European Football Associations

• Other published industry specific guidance documents including:

- Fáilte Ireland Guidelines to Re-Opening All Sectors

- CIF (Construction Industry Federation) Construction Sector C-19 Pandemic Standard Operating Procedures

• Public Health advice for other jurisdictions, including New Zealand, Australia, France and the UK

• UK Events Research Programme

• Netherlands Fieldlab Events

• German University of Halle Leipzig Concert

• Review of COVID-19 Measures applied at international Sporting Bodies and Stadia, including:

- EU - Germany (Bundisliga), France (French Open), Italy (Parma Empoli), Spain (Palau Sant Jordi)

- UK – RFU, EFL, World Snooker Tournament

- New Zealand - AFL and Rugby

- Australia (Australian Open and AFL)

- ASM Global Venue shield reopening programme

• USA - Katie Keenan Director of Live Event Operations at the NFL, Brendan Meehan, Commercial Director of Corporate.ie and Matt Davidson, Associated AD-Event Management at University of Nebraska provided valuable information on the experience of returning fans to sporting and cultural events in the USA

Coronavirus

Advice

Guidelines for re-opening Sportsgrounds · 2021. 6. 4. · Guidelines for re-opening Sportsgrounds...

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